Man Killed in Mountain Lion Attack in Northern California

A 21-year-old man lost his life, and his brother sustained injuries, following a mountain lion attack in the secluded terrains of El Dorado County on Saturday. The tragic incident unfolded near Georgetown, specifically around Darling Ridge Road and Skid Road, as reported by the El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office.

Authorities were alerted to the attack around 1:15 p.m. on Saturday following an urgent call from an 18-year-old, who recounted the attack while he and his 21-year-old brother were hunting for antler sheds. The younger sibling managed to escape with facial injuries but was separated from his brother during the ordeal.

Rescue efforts led to the 18-year-old’s location shortly after 1:30 p.m., while the search continued for his brother. Around 1:45 p.m., authorities found the mountain lion crouched beside the older brother’s body. Although deputies were able to scare the animal away with gunfire, the 21-year-old was unfortunately found deceased. His identity has not been released.

The injured teen received medical attention for his injuries, while the California Department of Fish and Wildlife intervened, locating and euthanizing the mountain lion involved in the attack. The animal’s body is set for examination to understand more about the circumstances leading to this tragic incident.

This incident marks a rare occurrence in El Dorado County, with the last recorded fatal mountain lion attack dating back to 1994.

Authorities remind the public of the importance of knowing how to react if faced with a mountain lion encounter, advising to remain calm, make oneself appear larger, and avoid running or crouching, ensuring small children are kept elevated and safe.