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 was in the forest assisting clients in tracking a deer they had shot on Friday, September 8. During their outing, they initially saw a smaller bear. Noorlander tried to use his rifle to scare it off, but the firearm malfunctioned, leaving him vulnerable.
Suddenly, a large 10-foot grizzly bear ambushed him. With no other options, Noorlander defended himself using his fists. The bear was too strong and inflicted serious injuries on him. Among the injuries he sustained were scratches on his right chest, bites on his limbs, and a horrific injury to his lower jaw, which was almost completely ripped off.
Hunters accompanying Noorlander acted quickly, driving away the bears and arranging for a helicopter evacuation. The presence of more bears in the area necessitated that the first helicopter wait for backup. Noorlander braved two hours on the ground, remaining aware despite the circumstances.
After receiving initial treatment at Bozeman Deaconess Hospital in Montana, Noorlander was transferred to the University of Utah Hospital for additional care.
The Custer Gallatin National Forest took safety measures by shutting down sections to search for the grizzly, but the bear’s location is still unknown.
Katelynn Noorlander, his daughter, started a GoFundMe page for her father’s medical expenses and emphasized his bravery and resilience. The family remains optimistic about his recovery.