Brothers Attempted to Fight Off Mountain Lion in Deadly Attack in Northern California

Two brothers from rural Mount Aukum, Taylen Robert Claude Brooks, 21, and Wyatt Jay Charles Brooks, 18, faced a mountain lion attack while hunting for shed antlers near Georgetown, about 50 miles northeast of Sacramento. Unfortunately, Taylen did not survive the attack.

Now, more details have been provided about the terrifying incident, which included the brothers fighting for their lives in the Sierra foothills.

The encounter occurred around 1 p.m. when the brothers spotted the mountain lion along the edge of a dirt road. Following safety guidelines, they attempted to scare the cougar away by raising their hands, shouting, and throwing a backpack. Instead of retreating, the mountain lion charged at them.

The younger brother, Wyatt, was pounced on by the cougar, sustaining severe injuries to his face. In a brave effort to protect his brother, Taylen fought off the lion, but tragically, he was fatally injured during the struggle.

“While Taylen beat on and yelled at the lion, Wyatt was able to wrestle the lion to the ground with him on top of the lion. The lion began clawing at Wyatt’s midsection causing Wyatt to release his grip. At that point, the lion released Wyatt, got up and charged Taylen, biting Taylen in the throat and taking Taylen to the ground,” the statement said.

Despite his own injuries, Wyatt continued to battle the mountain lion, allowing him to escape and seek help. He underwent reconstructive surgery on his face and neck and is now recuperating at home.

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife located and euthanized the mountain lion following the incident. While mountain lion attacks on humans are rare, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by wildlife encounters.

“We are all devastated by the tragic loss of Taylen yet thankful Wyatt is still with us and are well-aware the outcome could have been even worse,” the family statement said. “These two young men being as close as any two brothers could be, lived a full energetic life enjoying the outdoors.”

Taylen, remembered as a talented guitar player and a kind soul, worked alongside his father in painting houses and cutting firewood. Wyatt, who aspired to join the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, is described as an avid baseball player and bow-hunting enthusiast.

The Brooks family expressed their devastation over the loss of Taylen and their gratitude that Wyatt survived the harrowing ordeal. They emphasized the close bond between the two brothers, who shared a love for the outdoors and lived life to the fullest.

“A brother is a friend given by nature,” the family wrote in their statement. “These two brothers were driven by nature.”