Mountain Lion Attacks 4-Year-Old at Olympic National Park

Published: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 at 10:22 am

Mountain Lion Attack in Olympic National Park Sends Child to Hospital

PORT ANGELES, Washington – A young child is recovering after being attacked by a mountain lion in Olympic National Park over the weekend. The National Park Service (NPS) reported that the incident occurred near the Victoria Overlook area of Hurricane Ridge.

According to the NPS, the four-year-old child was hiking with their family on a well-traveled trail when the attack took place. Emergency responders from Clallam County Fire District 2 provided immediate medical assistance, and the child was subsequently airlifted to a trauma center. As of Monday, the child was receiving treatment for injuries at a Seattle hospital.

Following the attack, park rangers, assisted by a canine team, initiated a search for the mountain lion. The NPS announced on Monday that the animal had been located and dispatched. Park officials have stated that there are no ongoing threats to the public.

The incident is currently under investigation. The NPS is urging anyone who witnessed the attack to contact them by calling 888-653-0009 or emailing nps_isb@nps.gov.

In light of the attack, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has reiterated safety guidelines for encounters with mountain lions. These guidelines emphasize the importance of appearing larger and more aggressive by opening jackets, raising arms, and throwing objects without turning away. Individuals are advised to speak firmly and loudly to deter predatory behavior and to never run from a cougar. If possible, pick up small children without bending over or turning away.

BNN's Perspective: This incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks associated with enjoying the natural world. While such attacks are rare, they underscore the importance of respecting wildlife and adhering to safety guidelines provided by park services and wildlife agencies. Increased public awareness and education about mountain lion behavior and safety protocols are crucial to minimizing the potential for future incidents.

Keywords: mountain lion, attack, Olympic National Park, child, Hurricane Ridge, hiking trail, National Park Service, safety, wildlife, cougar, injuries, investigation

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