Bear attacks dog walker near Columbia Falls

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks and the U.S. Forest Service are investigating a bear attack on a woman walking her dog on the Cedar Flats trail complex north of Columbia Falls. The attack occurred around 7 p.m. on Aug. 31. The species of bear involved in the attack is currently unknown, FWP said in a release Tuesday morning.

Last night, investigators from FWP and Forest Service, with assistance from the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office, searched for the bear using a thermal infrared drone but were unable to locate it. The Cedar Flats Trail area and all its trails remain closed by Forest Service officials in the interest of public safety. The victim sustained significant injuries and was transported to Logan Health Medical Center for treatment. The incident is still under investigation, and no further details are available at this time.

FWP spokeswoman Malia Freeman said she did not know if the woman was carrying bear spray and said more information would be released as the investigation continues.