72-year-old Arkansas man mauled by 70-pound bear, hospitalized with extensive injuries

A 72-year-old Fayetteville-area man was airlifted to a hospital this week after being mauled by a 70-pound black bear, Arkansas Game and Fish Commission spokesperson Keith Stephens said.

Vernon Patton was taken to Washington Regional Medical Center in Fayetteville, where he underwent surgery, and was later transferred to the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. Stephens told Fox News Digital that Patton was initially listed in critical condition; he is now in stable condition but remains hospitalized. "His injuries were extensive," Stephens said. "It was a pretty severe attack. It attacked him on his face, his arms, his upper body."

The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission said the incident is rare. Stephens told USA Today it was the first known bear attack in Arkansas in at least decades and that he believes the last documented attack may have occurred in the 19th century. State wildlife officials are investigating the circumstances of the encounter, including the location and whether any attractants may have been present.

Officials identified the animal involved as a roughly 70-pound black bear. Black bears are present in parts of Arkansas, but attacks on humans are uncommon. Stephens described the assault as "highly unusual." Law enforcement and wildlife officers often respond to such incidents to determine whether the animal poses an ongoing threat to public safety and whether relocation or other measures are warranted.

Medical teams treated Patton for traumatic injuries to his face, arms and upper body and performed surgery at the Fayetteville hospital before moving him to the statewide medical center for further care. Hospital officials have not released additional medical details beyond his condition. Severe animal maulings commonly require multiple specialties, including trauma surgery, reconstructive procedures and infection prevention measures, depending on the nature and extent of injuries.

The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission routinely advises residents and visitors in bear country to secure attractants, maintain distance from wildlife, and contact authorities if they encounter an aggressive animal. Officials have not released details about any warnings or prior reports in the area where the attack occurred.

Wildlife authorities continue to investigate the incident and said they will provide updates as more information becomes available. Local and state agencies did not immediately report any other injuries or related public-safety actions connected to the attack.