A mountain lion was euthanized after attacking and injuring a 5-year-old boy at Malibu Creek State Park over the weekend. The incident occurred on Sunday afternoon while a family from Woodland Hills was having a picnic at the park. According to a statement from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, the children were playing near their picnic table when the mountain lion suddenly attacked the young boy.
At least one adult immediately charged at the mountain lion, forcing it to release the child and flee up a nearby tree. When California State Parks rangers and L.A. County sheriff’s deputies arrived, the lion was still in the tree. After consulting with wildlife officers, they determined that the animal posed a significant threat to public safety and a ranger euthanized the mountain lion with a firearm.
The 5-year-old boy sustained serious injuries and was airlifted to Northridge Hospital Medical Center. Thankfully, he was released from the hospital the following morning. No other injuries were reported. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of being aware of wildlife in natural areas and taking precautions to ensure safety.
