3-Year-Old Girl Mauled by Black Bear at Montana Campground

RED LODGE, Mont. — A 3-year-old girl was mauled by a black bear while sleeping in a tent at a private campground near Yellowstone National Park on Sunday night. The incident occurred around 10 p.m. at a campground south of Red Lodge, prompting immediate medical attention. The girl was transported to a hospital in Billings, but as of Tuesday, her condition remains undisclosed, according to state wildlife officials. In response to the attack, the campground was evacuated, and wildlife officials set traps in the vicinity. A bear believed to be involved in the incident was captured and subsequently euthanized on Monday afternoon. Investigators from Fish, Wildlife and Parks discovered food-related items, including garbage and a cooler, both inside and around the tent where the attack took place. Authorities noted that the bear had no prior history of conflicts with humans. However, it appeared to have become habituated to human food, likely due to previous access to garbage and food sources in the area. This behavior may have contributed to the attack, highlighting the risks associated with improper food storage in bear-prone regions. Wildlife officials are urging campers to take precautions by storing food, garbage, and any scented items in bear-resistant containers or vehicles to prevent similar incidents in the future. The agency emphasizes the importance of maintaining a safe environment for both humans and wildlife.