A 61-year-old Navy veteran is in critical but stable condition after a grizzly bear attack in the Custer Gallatin National Forest near Big Sky, Montana.
Rudy Noorlander had been assisting clients in tracking a deer they had shot when the incident occurred on Friday, September 8.
Initially spotting a small bear, Noorlander attempted to scare it away with his rifle, but it malfunctioned, leaving him defenseless. It was then that a 10-foot grizzly ambushed him, leading him to use his fists in self-defense. Unfortunately, the bear overpowered him, causing severe injuries.
Noorlander’s injuries include scratches on his right chest, bites on his arms and legs, and the loss of his lower jaw. Remarkably, he remained conscious throughout the ordeal.
“The whole bottom part of his mouth is gone, teeth, jaw,” said Noorlander’s sister.
Hunters who were with him managed to scare off the bears and called for a helicopter rescue. Due to the ongoing threat of bears, the first helicopter had to wait for assistance from another helicopter to deter any remaining bears. Noorlander endured two hours on the ground while remaining conscious despite the fear, pain, and blood loss.
Following initial surgery at Bozeman Deaconess Hospital in Montana, Noorlander was transported to the University of Utah Hospital for further treatment. The US Forest Service took prompt action by closing off sections of the park to locate the grizzly bear. The current status of the bear’s whereabouts remains uncertain.
Noorlander’s daughter, Katelynn Noorlander, set up a GoFundMe page to support her father’s recovery, describing him as courageous and strong. The family remains hopeful for his recovery.
