Hiker Killed and Partially Eaten by Grizzly Bear in Yellowstone National Park

Officials said they will euthanize any bears involved in the attack

A hiker was killed and partially eaten by a grizzly bear in Yellowstone National Park last week, authorities said Saturday.

“The victim’s body was found partially consumed and cached, or covered, in the vicinity of the Elephant Back Loop Trail near Lake Village on Friday afternoon,” the National Park Service said in a statement.

The Montana man, who will be officially identified on Monday, was an experienced hiker who worked for urgent-care clinics in the parks. A ranger found his body near the popular trail, which has been closed for the time being.

“Based on partial tracks found at the scene, it appears that an adult female grizzly and at least one cub-of-the-year were present and likely involved in the incident,” the statement continued.

Officials are looking for the bears involved in the attack. If those bears are found, they will be euthanized, the park service said.

“We may not be able to conclusively determine the circumstances of this bear attack, but we will not risk public safety,” said Yellowstone National Park Superintendent Dan Wenk.

He added: “We are deeply saddened by this tragedy, and our hearts go out to the family and friends of the victim as they work to cope with the loss of someone who loved Yellowstone so very much.”