Karen Williams, marathon runner, after bear attack

LOS ALAMOS, N.M.  — Wildlife officials say the bear who attacked a marathon runner in the Valles Caldera over the weekend is dead and will be tested for rabies.

Authorities say a woman was racing on Saturday, June 18, when she was confronted by the female black bear.

According to Game and Fish officials, the victim surprised the bear whose cub had ran up a nearby tree.

The woman suffered several bites and scratches.

She was airlifted to Albuquerque, N.M. for treatment and is expected to be okay.

Authorities say the bear was part of a study and had a GPS collar. They say they’re now working on finding her three cubs to turn them over tho the care of the New Mexico Wildlife Center.

Here are some ways to protect yourself if you encounter a bear:

• Stop, and back away slowly while facing the bear. Avoid direct eye contact, as the bear may consider that a threat. Do not run. Make yourself appear large by holding out your jacket. If you have small children, pick them up so they don’t run.
• Give the bear plenty of room to escape, so it doesn’t feel threatened or trapped. If a black bear attacks you, fight back using anything at your disposal, such as rocks, sticks, binoculars or even your bare hands. Aim for the bear’s nose and eyes.
• If the bear has not seen you, stay calm and slowly move away, making noise so the bear knows you are there. Never get between a mother bear and her cubs.

If you live or camp in bear country:

• Keep garbage in airtight containers inside your garage or storage area. Place garbage outside in the morning just before pickup, not the night before. Occasionally clean cans with ammonia or bleach.
• Remove bird feeders. Bears see them as sweet treats, and often they will look for other food sources nearby.
• Never put meat or sweet-smelling food scraps such as melon in your compost pile.
• Don’t leave pet food or food dishes outdoors at night.
• Clean and store outdoor grills after use. Bears can smell sweet barbecue sauce and grease for miles.
• Never intentionally feed bears to attract them for viewing.
• Keep your camp clean, and store food and garbage properly at all times. Use bear-proof containers when available. If not, suspend food, toiletries, coolers and garbage from a tree at least 10 feet off the ground and 4 feet out from the tree trunk.
• Keep your tent and sleeping bag free of all food smells. Store the clothes you wore while cooking or eating with your food.
• Sleep a good distance from your cooking area or food storage site.

Source: KRQE