Elk hunter hospitalized after bear attack

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho — Eastern Idaho authorities say an elk hunter has been hospitalized in serious condition after being attacked by a bear Saturday morning.

Fremont County authorities say Richard Paini of Island Park suffered puncture wounds to his right forearm and left hand in the attack at about 9 a.m. and was taken to the Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center in Idaho Falls.

A hospital spokesman says Paini was listed in serious condition Saturday afternoon but declined to release the extent of his injuries.

KIFI-TV reports that a second hunter, John Stiehl of Island Park, used bear spray to chase away what he believes to be a grizzly bear.

Authorities say the hunters surprised the bear that then circled through some trees and attacked.