Grizzly Bear Attack Seriously Injures Man in Grand Teton National Park, Prompting Closure

On the afternoon of May 19, 2024, a terrifying incident unfolded in western Wyoming's Grand Teton National Park as a 35-year-old man from Massachusetts was seriously injured in a grizzly bear attack on Signal Mountain.

The victim, whose identity has been kept confidential, was unexpectedly surprised by two grizzly bears, one of which viciously attacked him. The details of the encounter remain undisclosed by park officials.

Emergency Response

Following the attack, emergency responders swiftly intervened by airlifting the injured man by helicopter to a nearby hospital. Although the extent of his injuries was not explicitly revealed, park officials assured that the victim was expected to make a full recovery.

In response to the alarming incident, park officials made the difficult decision to close off access to Signal Mountain, shutting down a trail and the road leading to an overlook perched at an elevation of 7,700 feet (2,300 meters).

Summer Tourist Season Concerns

The attack comes at a troublesome time as Grand Teton and nearby Yellowstone National Park gear up for the bustling summer tourist season. With the grizzly population in the region on the rise, such encounters have become more frequent. Park authorities emphasize the importance of maintaining a safe distance from bears, carrying bear spray, and refraining from leaving food items that could attract bears.