An Arizona woman has tragically passed away following a horrifying encounter with an elk in her own backyard. The incident, which wildlife officials believe to be the first fatal elk attack in the state's history, occurred in the Pine Lake community in the Hualapai Mountains, approximately 15 miles southeast of Kingman.

The woman's husband made the shocking discovery when he found his wife lying on the ground in their backyard on the evening of October 26th. Immediately realizing the severity of the situation, he promptly called 911 and paramedics rushed to the scene. She was quickly transported to the Kingman Regional Medical Center before being transferred to Sunrise Hospital in Las Vegas. Due to the extent of her injuries, she was placed in a medically induced coma.

Tragically, eight days after the incident, the woman, whose identity remains undisclosed, passed away on Friday. The Clark County Medical Examiner's office ruled her death as an accident. Although there were no direct witnesses to the attack, the woman's husband informed wildlife officials that her injuries were consistent with those sustained from being trampled by an elk. Upon further investigation, officials discovered a bucket of spilled corn in the yard and noticed multiple elk tracks.

Following this devastating incident, wildlife officials took immediate action and posted notices on doors in the neighborhood, advising residents against approaching or feeding elk. As a precautionary measure, additional notices and two roadside warning signs were also erected after the woman's death. Although this was the first recorded fatal elk attack in Arizona, there have been five reported elk attacks in the state over the past five years.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department has emphasized the importance of not feeding wildlife, as doing so can cause animals to become habituated to humans. This loss of natural fear can lead to conflicts, posing risks not only to the individuals feeding the animals but also to their neighbors and the wildlife itself. In light of this tragic incident, state wildlife officers will continue to closely monitor elk activity in the area.

This heartbreaking incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential danger that can arise when humans interact with wild animals. The community mourns the loss of this woman and wildlife officials are urging everyone to exercise caution and avoid engaging with elk or any other wildlife species.