The heartbreaking death of Kristen Marie Kovatch, 46, who was tragically mauled by a mountain lion, has left the community mourning.
Kristen, a medical assistant, was out hiking near Glen Haven, Colorado, on New Year's Day when the fatal attack occurred, per The Sun.
A Sudden and Fatal Attack in Colorado’s Wilderness
Kristen's death marks the first fatal mountain lion attack in Colorado in 25 years. According to the Larimer County Coroner's Office, an autopsy revealed that Kristen died from asphyxia caused by compression of her neck during the attack.
The fatal encounter took place on the Crosier Mountain Trail, where two hikers stumbled upon the scene.
When they discovered the mountain lion about 100 yards away, they immediately threw rocks to scare it off. Tragically, it was too late for Kristen, as she was already without a pulse.
You can see the CCTV footage below:
Heartfelt Tribute from Kristen's Brother
Kristen's brother, Jeffrey Kovatch, shared an emotional tribute to his sister on Facebook.
Along with a photo of Kristen, he expressed his deep sorrow: “She died doing something she loved deeply, hiking and taking in the beauty of Colorado and its public lands. I keep hoping this is all just a nightmare I’ll wake up from.”
In his tribute, Jeffrey described Kristen as someone who was not only an amazing professional but also a loving family member.
"Kristen was so loved by our immediate and extended family, her friends, and her coworkers. She was an amazing aunt to my three kids, a tender caretaker to my elderly parents, and my baby sister who I will miss dearly,” he wrote.
Kristen's family remembers her as an enthusiastic ultramarathon runner and a devoted animal lover.
She worked as a medical assistant at UCHealth Heart and Vascular Clinic in Fort Collins for a decade, from 2011 to 2021.
A UCHealth spokesperson expressed the organization's condolences following Kristen’s tragic passing: "UCHealth is saddened to learn of the tragic death of Kristen Marie Kovatch. We extend our heartfelt condolences to her loved ones."
The Mountain Lion Attack and the Immediate Response
After the horrific scene was discovered, wildlife officials responded quickly.
Authorities later located and euthanized two mountain lions - a male and a female - near the trail. A necropsy on one of the animals revealed traces of human DNA on its paws.
Kara Can Hoose, a spokesperson for Colorado Parks and Wildlife, confirmed the findings, stating: “Human DNA was found on all four paws of the male subadult lion. No human DNA was detected on the female subadult. Both lions tested negative for rabies.”
Community and Trail Safety After the Incident
In the wake of the attack, the Colorado Parks and Wildlife department closed all three Crosier Mountain trails while emergency responders worked at the scene.
Although the trails have since reopened, officials have posted warning signs and provided educational messages regarding mountain lions in the area.
While there were initial concerns about the possibility of a third mountain lion being involved in the attack, search efforts were later called off when no additional threats were found.
Mountain Lion Attacks in Colorado: A Rare but Deadly Occurrence
While mountain lion attacks are incredibly rare, they have occurred in Colorado before. Over the past 36 years, 28 mountain lion attacks have been reported in the state.
These animals, which can weigh up to 130 pounds and reach lengths of up to six feet, primarily prey on deer but will also hunt elk and smaller animals like rabbits, rodents, and coyotes.
Mountain lions are most active during the winter months, which can make them more visible to hikers.
To avoid potential encounters, wildlife officials advise hikers to make noise, appear larger by raising their arms or waving clothing, and slowly back away if they come across a mountain lion.