YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK — An official update about the recent bear attack in Yellowstone National Park (YNP) was released by the park on Thursday evening, stating that the investigation continues.
Trails, backcountry campsites and fishing areas remain closed temporarily near the Old Faithful zone following a bear-human incident on the Mystic Falls Trail on Monday. YNP’s initial statement about the attack on two hikers included few details, and Thursday’s statement elaborates only slightly more.
“Emergency responders, including law enforcement, EMS personnel and interagency partners, responded to the scene and provided aid before transporting two male hikers, ages 15 and 28, from the area by helicopter,” the statement explains.
YNP says that the evidence collected so far points to the involvement of a female grizzly bear with two or three cubs of the year — new cubs born within the last year. The statement goes on to say that the incident remains under investigation and there are no further details available at this time. This was the first incident of a bear injuring a person in the park this year.
The two people involved in the attack are brothers, according to the Jackson Hole News&Guide. They are reportedly being treated at Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center. WyoFile noted that the site of the attack had previously been closed to spring hikers to reduce grizzly conflicts.
The Geyser Basin boardwalk areas remain open. YNP is reminding visitors that everyone is required to follow all posted closures. Learn more about current backcountry closures on YNP’s website.
