Key Point Summary – 4-Year-Old Attacked by Cougar

• Mountain lion attacked a 4-year-old at Olympic National Park
• The child was walking with family near Hurricane Ridge
• Paramedics airlifted the victim to a Seattle hospital
• Rangers tracked and killed the collared cougar
• Officials say there is no ongoing threat to the public
• The child’s identity and condition remain private
• Witnesses urged to contact the National Park Service

Hike Turns Horrific at Olympic National Park

A peaceful family hike turned into a nightmare Sunday when a mountain lion lunged at a 4-year-old child on a popular trail at Olympic National Park in Washington state.

The attack occurred near the Victoria Overlook on Hurricane Ridge, an area known for sweeping mountain views and heavy foot traffic, according to park officials.

Without warning, the cougar bit the child during the hike. Family members reacted immediately while emergency services raced to the remote scene.

Airlifted to Seattle Hospital

Park staff and paramedics responded rapidly. They stabilized the child and airlifted the young victim to a hospital in Seattle for treatment.

As of Monday, officials have not released details about the child’s identity or current medical condition, citing privacy concerns.

However, the National Park Service confirmed that the child is receiving care and the situation is under active investigation.

Cougar Tracked and Killed

By early Monday morning, park rangers had located the responsible animal — a collared mountain lion — and “dispatched” it, according to a National Park Service statement.

“There are no current threats to the public,” officials added, reassuring visitors and nearby residents.

Officials haven’t yet explained why the mountain lion attacked, though such incidents are extremely rare. Park officials say they are studying the animal’s behavior and health.

Trail of Questions Remains

Olympic National Park spans nearly a million acres and is home to a variety of wildlife — including mountain lions, black bears, and elk. However, attacks by cougars are exceedingly uncommon.

Wildlife biologists from the park and surrounding regions will now study the cougar to determine if illness, injury, or environmental stress contributed to the aggression.

Meanwhile, authorities urge anyone who witnessed the incident to call 888-653-0009 or email nps_isb@nps.gov to assist with the ongoing investigation.

Public Reacts With Shock

The rare attack has rattled outdoor enthusiasts in the region. “You never think it’s going to happen to a child, especially in a place with so many people around,” one frequent hiker told local media.

Park officials say they’ll reevaluate visitor safety guidelines and increase patrols in certain areas.

For now, the trail remains open — but the fear of another surprise attack lingers in the minds of many.