August 7, 2015

August 7, 2015 15-053

Julena Campbell or Amy Bartlett

(307)344-2015

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An investigation is currently underway to determine the cause of death of a hiker found in the vicinity of the Elephant Back Loop Trail in the Lake Village area of Yellowstone National Park.

Around noon on Friday, August 7, a park ranger found the body of a Montana man who had been reported missing by co-workers that morning. The identity of the victim is being withheld pending notification of family members.

The Elephant Back Loop Trail and immediate area is closed to hikers while the investigation continues. Although there were signs of grizzly bear activity in the area, a conclusive cause of death, which likely occurred on Thursday afternoon or Friday morning, has yet to be determined.

Hikers are advised to stay on designated trails, leave an itinerary with others, hike in groups of three or more people, be alert for bears, make noise, and carry bear spray.

- www.nps.gov/yell -

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