In a tale that reads like a script from a high-stakes survival movie, Tyler Johnson, a seasoned hunter from Alaska, found himself in a life-or-death situation in the wilds of south-central Alaska. On a fateful day in August 2024, Johnson, along with his father, an Alaskan State Trooper, embarked on what was supposed to be a routine hunting trip. However, their adventure took a terrifying turn when they inadvertently startled a brown bear, leading to an attack that could have ended tragically.
WILD STORY
— Open Source Intel (@Osint613) August 22, 2024
Tyler Johnson is lucky to be alive after being charged by a bear in south-central Alaska. Despite being bitten, he managed to shoot the bear, though one bullet accidentally hit his own leg.
Johnson later filmed a remarkably calm video and was airlifted to Anchorage,… pic.twitter.com/xoQMyFFEZX
The Attack
The incident happened on the Resurrection Pass Trail, a popular hiking route known for its scenic beauty but also for its wildlife, including bears. Johnson and his father were hiking through an area with knee-high grass when they surprised a brown bear, possibly a sow with a cub nearby, which might explain the aggressive response. The bear, initially hidden, charged at them with the force Johnson later described as “like getting hit by a train.”
In the chaos, as the bear mauled him, Johnson managed to draw his 10mm pistol. In the scuffle, he fired multiple shots at the bear, aiming to stop the attack. Amidst this frantic defense, one bullet accidentally hit Johnson’s leg, passing through and exiting out the back. His father, an Alaskan State Trooper, also reacted swiftly and opened fire, contributing to stopping the bear’s assault.
The Aftermath
What followed was a scene of calm amidst chaos. Johnson, despite his injuries, maintained a remarkable composure. He even filmed a video of himself, showcasing a level-headedness that belied the severity of his situation. In this video, he discussed the incident with a clarity that might surprise many, considering he had just survived a bear attack and shot himself. His leg, bandaged with a makeshift tourniquet, was evidence of the ordeal, yet Johnson’s focus seemed more on the beauty of the day than on his injuries.
Recovery and Reflections
Johnson was airlifted by military helicopter to Anchorage, where he received treatment at Alaska Medical Center. Remarkably, he did not require surgery for his injuries, a testament to both the immediate first aid applied and the non-critical nature of his wounds after stabilization. His recovery was swift, and within days, he was planning his return to Austin, Texas, where he was set to start a new job, undeterred by the recent events.