Authorities in Montana confirmed late Friday that a hiker who had been reported missing was likely killed during an encounter with a grizzly bear.
Craig Clouatre of Livingston was reported overdue from his hike in the Six Mile Creek area on Thursday, according to the Bozeman Daily Chronicle and Idaho Statesman.
A search-and-rescue team from the Park County Sheriff’s Office located his body Friday morning. The agency did not provide details but Sheriff Brad Bilcher posted the the following statement to Facebook:
“It is with a very heavy heart that I am writing this update. After an extensive search this morning we have located Craig. It appears he had an encounter with a grizzly and unfortunately did not survive.
“We will continue to work through the afternoon to bring Craig home. Please keep his family and all those involved in your thoughts and prayers.”
The post garnered nearly 200 comments from people expressing sympathy and offering condolences for Clouatre’s family.
Grizzly bears are emerging from hibernation and searching for food. People venturing into the wilderness are urged to carry bear spray and to hike in groups whenever possible.
–Grizzly bear image is generic
