A mother of three faced a terrifying ordeal in Alaska when she was mauled by a bear outside her home while out for a morning jog. Ariean Fabrizio Colton, 36, was only 50 yards from her house when the unexpected attack occurred, according to Alaska Wildlife Trooper David Lorring. The bear dragged her approximately 100 yards away from her home before the situation was brought under control.
A neighbor heard unsettling sounds from the bear before the incident and thought it was just a disturbance involving a dog. Lorring recounted that the neighbor, having had previous encounters with bears, initially dismissed the noise. “He ended up, daylight, he walked out there and located a female in the woods on his property,” Lorring explained.
Colton’s injuries were severe. She requires extensive surgery and will stay hospitalized for an extended period. A GoFundMe page to assist with her recovery has already raised over $70,000, showing a strong community response to a dire situation. An update on the GoFundMe stated, “We are so appreciative of all donations, prayers, and well wishes on Ariean’s behalf. Ariean has had her initial surgery, and the doctors are positive and hopeful. It is still a long road to recovery, so please continue providing support and sharing this link. Thank you!!”
The attack left Colton with significant wounds on her face and scalp. Despite her injuries, she remained conscious and able to communicate. Unfortunately, the bear escaped and was not located by officials who searched the area, although they believe it was likely a brown bear.
“Wildlife Troopers, Fish and Game, and Kenai Police searched the area but were unable to find it,” the report indicated. Initially, there was a plan to put down the bear if found, but Lorring pointed out the challenge of identifying the exact animal involved. “It would be difficult to determine which bear was involved,” he said.
The Kenai National Wildlife Refuge is nearby, boasting nearly two million acres and hosting around 2,183 different species of animals. Local authorities continue to patrol the area to ensure the safety of residents. They have urged neighbors to stay vigilant when stepping outside, particularly in light of this attack.
This shocking event echoes concerns from earlier this year when a disabled U.S. Army combat veteran survived a grizzly bear attack in Wyoming’s Grand Teton National Park, demonstrating the dangers that wildlife can pose even in more populated areas.
"*" indicates required fields
