Dalton highway worker injured in roadside wolf incident

Two Dalton Highway workers almost became roadkill in an incident involving a wolf. Here's more from Alaska Public Media:

Police spokesman Austin McDaniel said the attack occurred as the two motorists – both from Alaska – were standing outside their RV and examining it. Several other commercial vehicles had been stopped in the area at the time. …

McDaniel said the black wolf exhibited behavior that suggested it had been fed by motorists before Tuesday's incident – including not being afraid of people.

“The wolf would stop in front of vehicles and act as if it was expecting food or some other offering from the vehicle before moving on to the next vehicle,” McDaniel said.

And some additional details from the Alaska Wildlife Troopers report:

AK24083772

Location: Cold foot

Type: Attack on wild animals

Shipping text:

On August 19, 2024 at 3:22 p.m., Alaska Wildlife Troopers were notified of a wolf attack at mile marker 37 of the Dalton Highway that injured two motorists. Investigation revealed that a wolf had bitten the two motorists in the lower extremities as they stopped in a construction zone and exited their vehicle while waiting for the support vehicle. The wolf fled into the woods after being shot at by another motorist and was presumed not to have been hit. Both individuals sustained stab wounds and are receiving medical care in Fairbanks. AWT was unable to locate the wolf in the area later that same day. ADF&G was notified of the attack.

Alaska Wildlife Troopers would like to remind people of the dangers of feeding wildlife. Although these individuals did not feed the wolf, it was observed exhibiting behavior that suggested it had been fed by other motorists. Feeding wildlife is not only dangerous, but also illegal and punishable by a fine: Feeding Wildlife, Section 5 AAC 92.230.