I had a close encounter with a Momma bear and her three cubs, about fifteen years ago. I was riding pretty quickly, down a trail in the Klamath range (NorCal). Swung round a bend....and there she was- in none-too cheery a mood. I guess anyone who has done a deal of back country riding, has stories like that.

This is a different category of bad- your heart goes out to all concerned.

I've seen signs in a few Californian State parks, warning about the proximity of Cougars- and the danger they pose, to young children, especially, at some of the more remote locations. This recent incident is the worst kind of reminder, for us all and I'm sorry it happened.