Shayne Patrick Burke, an Army veteran and photographer, was seriously injured in a bear attack at Wyoming’s Grand Teton National Park while hiking near Signal Mountain Summit Road. He encountered a mother grizzly bear protecting her cub and suffered multiple injuries during the attack. Burke recounted the harrowing experience in an Instagram post, describing it as the most violent thing he had ever experienced, even more so than being shot at or experiencing explosions during his time in the Army. He shared photos of his gruesome injuries and detailed his recovery process in the hospital.
Burke had ventured out to photograph great grey owls in the woods and had taken his bear spray with him for protection. However, when he encountered the mother bear and her cub, he attempted to deploy the spray but was unable to before she charged at him. Burke tried to stand his ground by shouting and bracing himself for the attack, but the bear inflicted multiple bites and slashes on his body. He managed to keep hold of the bear spray during the attack, and when the bear tried to go for his neck, the canister exploded in her mouth, causing her to flee. Burke then ran in the opposite direction up a hill to escape further harm.
During the attack, Burke managed to contact his wife via text message, informing her that he had been attacked. He also called 911 and applied improvised tourniquets to slow the bleeding from his wounded legs while waiting for help to arrive. Burke recorded a video message for his loved ones, fearing that he might not survive the ordeal. Fortunately, park rangers and rescue teams were able to locate him and transport him to the hospital, where he underwent surgery for his injuries. Despite the traumatic experience, Burke expressed his love and respect for wildlife and requested that the bear not be killed as a result of the attack.
The attack left Burke with severe injuries, including bites and slashes on his back, shoulders, legs, and neck. He underwent surgery to treat these wounds and began the process of recovery in the hospital. Burke’s encounter with the mother grizzly bear serves as a reminder of the importance of being prepared while hiking in bear country, including carrying bear spray and knowing how to react in the event of an encounter. Despite the terrifying nature of the attack, Burke maintained his appreciation for wildlife and expressed gratitude for the support and care he received from park rangers and rescue personnel during the aftermath of the incident.
As a disabled veteran and former Army Reservist, Shayne Patrick Burke demonstrated resilience and courage in the face of a life-threatening situation. His experience in the Army likely contributed to his ability to stay calm and composed during the bear attack, allowing him to take decisive actions to protect himself and seek help. Burke’s story serves as a testament to the unpredictable nature of encounters with wild animals in national parks and the importance of being vigilant and prepared while exploring the wilderness. Despite the trauma of the attack, Burke’s love for and respect for wildlife remained intact, highlighting the profound connection between humans and the natural world.
