Officials say the grizzly bear population has increased in recent years.
Woman found dead, authorities say in ‘apparent bear encounter’ Near Yellowstone National Park.
The woman’s body was found Saturday morning on the Buttermilk Trail west of West Yellowstone, Montana, according to the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks.
Authorities said they found grizzly bear tracks at the scene. Investigation is in progress.
Due to human safety, the Custer Gallatin National Forest has implemented an emergency closure of the Buttermilk District, wildlife officials said. The closed area is located approximately 13 miles from West Yellowstone.
The Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks said in a statement that grizzly bear populations have increased in recent years.
Last month, a 66-year-old man was killed by a bear in Arizona in what officials called a “highly unusual” and gratuitous attack.
Officials said the victim was identified as Stephen Jackson, a Tucson resident who was building a shack in the area. Yavapai County Sheriff David Rose said he was sitting in a chair outside his campground when the bear attacked him.
In another bear-related incident, a 35-year-old shepherd was attacked by an Asian black bear in San Juan National Forest, Colorado, on July 11, according to the State Parks and Wildlife Service.
The man suffered serious injuries to his head, left hand and arm, back, and left hip, according to the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Service.
“This is an unfortunate incident and we are grateful that the victim was able to contact help to dispatch an ambulance and was rescued to receive the medical care he needed,” said CPW Regional Wildlife Manager Adrian Archuleta. news release.
The Montana Fish and Wildlife Park suggests that people going outdoors in areas where bears are present should follow the following precautions:
ABC News’ Meredith Derriso contributed to this report.
