Arkansas Man, 72, Mauled by 70-Pound Bear in Front of Son, Family Confirms His Injuries Are Not Survivable

A 72-year-old Arkansas man attacked by a black bear earlier this month is not expected to survive, according to his family.

The victim, identified as Vernon Patton, was working with his tractor on a gravel road near Mulberry Mountain on Wednesday, Sept. 3, when a 70-pound juvenile bear suddenly attacked him. His son, who witnessed the horrifying event, quickly called for help.

Emergency responders airlifted Patton to Washington Regional in Fayetteville, where he underwent surgery before being transferred to the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock. Despite these efforts, his family later announced that the injuries he suffered were too severe.

“His injuries are extensive and ultimately not survivable,” the family shared in a statement. “This has been an extraordinarily difficult time for us, and we are deeply thankful for the outpouring of support. We ask for compassion and privacy as we spend what time we have left together.”

They also expressed gratitude to the medical staff and to all who have offered prayers and kindness during this ordeal.

According to Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) spokesperson Keith Stephens, Patton suffered serious wounds to his head and arms. His son managed to scare the animal off by hurling rocks before authorities later killed the bear.

Stephens noted the incident was “extremely rare,” pointing out that no bear attacks on humans had been recorded in the state in at least 25 years. The bear has since tested negative for rabies and distemper, though a necropsy has yet to be completed.