Grizzly that mauled hiker in Grand Teton National Park won’t be pursued

By MEAD GRUVER
Associated Press

A grizzly bear that attacked a hiker in Grand Teton National Park was likely defending a cub at the time and won’t be captured or killed by authorities. Signal Mountain in western Wyoming where the attack occurred is still closed to visitors three days after the violent encounter. The grizzly bit the man several times and he spent a night in the hospital. Park officials say they believe the grizzly was surprised by the 35-year-old Massachusetts man. They say the bears acted naturally in their own defense. The hiker pretended to be dead while the grizzly bit him. The animal eventually bit into a can of bear spray, which burst and frightened the bears away.