Mother of Three Seriously Injured in Bear Attack Near Kenai, Alaska

A woman and mother of three was violently attacked by a brown bear shortly after leaving her home for an early morning jog. Miraculously, she survived the encounter but sustained severe injuries requiring surgery and remains hospitalized.

At around 5 a.m., the bear emerged from a nearby property and ambushed her approximately 150 feet from her residence. She was found bloodied and in shock by a neighbor, who came across her in his yard. Authorities confirmed the bear dragged her down the road before the attack was stopped.

The Colton family sitting together in a field — She is currently hospitalized with serious injuries, including wounds to her face and scalp.

The woman, identified as Ariean Fabrizio Colton, was conscious upon discovery but was bleeding heavily. She was transported to a hospital in Anchorage, nearly three hours away. Her family issued an update stating she has undergone initial surgery, and though stable, faces a long recovery that will involve multiple surgeries.

Wildlife officials suspect the animal was a brown bear based on tracks, although it has not yet been found. Authorities advise residents and visitors to stay vigilant, especially as bears search for salmon and berries ahead of winter.

A woman and her three children by a lake — The family notes she will need extensive treatment and an extended hospital stay.

Experts recommend caution in the wilderness, such as staying aware of your surroundings—advising, for example, to use only one AirPod to keep noise levels manageable. Authorities urge caution as the search continues for the bear to prevent further incidents.