Camper attacked by mountain lion while camping near Salt River

SALT RIVER, AZ (3TV/CBS 5) - Officials in Gila County are searching for a mountain lion that reportedly attacked a man camping near the Salt River earlier this week.

The attack happened on March 16 in the White Mountain Apache Nation, a remote area on the north side of the Salt River. The Gila County Animal Care & Control says a group of rafters were camping when a mountain lion approached and reportedly attacked a 64-year-old man. Around ten other rafters attempted to fight off the mountain lion with their paddles while other campers headed to their rafts. Gila County Animal Care & Control said the man is doing well and is recovering from the attack.

The Gila County Animal Care & Control says the mountain lion is still in the area, and hunters with hound dogs are currently searching for it. They, along with the San Carlos Game and Fish, White Mountain Apache Tribe, and Arizona Game and Fish, have increased surveillance in the area to find the mountain lion.

If you see a sick or dead animal or an animal acting abnormally, you can contact Gila County Animal Care & Control at 928-425-5882.

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