MESA COUNTY, CO — Human remains discovered over the holiday weekend on the Grand Mesa have sparked a death investigation after authorities determined the body had been scavenged by a bear and other wildlife.
On Sunday, July 5, investigators with the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office responded to reports of potential human remains near the Wild Rose Picnic Area, located off Lands End Road. Upon arrival, officials confirmed the remains were human and noted that they had been scavenged and scattered.
While investigators determined the deceased had been consumed by a bear and likely other animals, the actual cause of death remains undetermined. The Mesa County Coroner’s Office has taken over the task of identifying the deceased and determining the exact cause and manner of death.
Authorities are asking for the public’s help. Anyone who may have seen anything suspicious in the area of the Wild Rose Campground between June 22 and July 5 is urged to contact Investigator Jenna Reed at (970) 244-3274.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife Safety Reminder
The Mesa County Sheriff’s Office, in partnership with Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW), emphasized that there is no ongoing threat to human health or safety in the area.
Because the Grand Mesa is a natural habitat for black bears, officials are reminding locals and visitors that human-bear conflicts are usually traced back to human behavior. To prevent these encounters, CPW recommends following the Six Outdoor BearWise Basics:
- Stay Alert and Together: Pay attention to your surroundings, recreate in groups, and make noise periodically so bears can avoid you. Leave the earbuds at home.
- Leave No Trash or Food Scraps: Double-bag food, pack out all trash, and never burn food scraps in a fire ring. Leaving scraps teaches bears to associate campsites with food.
- Keep Dogs Leashed: Keep dogs leashed at all times to prevent them from chasing or barking at wildlife, which can force a bear to defend itself.
- Camp Safely: Cook away from your tent and store all food, trash, and toiletries in approved bear-resistant containers, locked inside a vehicle, or suspended at least 10 feet high and 10 feet away from the tree trunk.
- Know How to React: If you see a bear, do not run. Back away slowly. If a bear approaches, hold your ground, wave your arms, and yell “Hey Bear.” If a black bear makes contact, do not play dead—fight back aggressively.
- Carry Bear Spray: Bear spray is a proven and effective deterrent. Keep it easily accessible and know how to use it.