Hunter Shoots Charging Grizzly Bear Near Montana Border

A spring black bear hunt turned into a terrifying wildlife encounter near the Montana-Idaho border, close to the west entrance of Yellowstone National Park.

According to the Idaho Fish & Game, a hunter shot and killed a grizzly bear in self-defense after the animal charged him and his son near Ashton, Idaho, on the evening of May 16.

The encounter occurred near Cave Falls Road on the Caribou-Targhee National Forest.

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The hunters were sitting on the edge of a meadow when a grizzly began crossing it and seemed to pick up their scent. The grizzly then changed direction and headed directly toward the two hunters. As the hunters attempted to alert the grizzly to their presence, it began to charge directly toward them.

The man attempted to alert the bear and scare it off, but instead of backing off, the grizzly charged. The man reportedly fired his sidearm before quickly switching to his rifle, ultimately stopping the bear just five yards from where he was standing.

Investigators later determined the shooting was a legitimate act of self-defense. The hunter immediately contacted the Fremont County Sheriff’s Office, and Idaho Fish and Game responded to investigate the incident.

Grizzly bears remain protected under both state and federal law, but encounters can happen quickly. Wildlife officials encourage people to carry bear spray, make noise, travel in groups when possible, and stay aware of fresh tracks or signs of bear activity.

Officials also remind hunters and campers to properly store food, garbage, and harvested meat away from campsites to help avoid attracting bears.

More information about the encounter can be found on the Idaho Fish & Game website.