Young Boy Recovers From Mountain Lion Attack
Family Hopes State Game Commission Will Take Action

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. -- A young boy was dragged away and clawed by a mountain lion. Six months later, he has recovered and his parents said they couldn't be more grateful.

The scars on Jose Salazar's head are still visible. A mountain lion dragged him by the head down a trail in the Sandia Mountains on May 17.

Jose's dad chased and caught up with the mountain lion and the big cat eventually let go and took off.

After surgeries and a stay in the hospital, Salazar's family said he is happy and healthy.

While Salazar is focusing on sports and school now, he said he still has some memories of the attack.

"I just heard a growl. I just looked back and saw it and I tried to run away, but it was too late. It just pounced on me," Salazar said.

The Salazar family went to Alamogordo in October to tell Jose's story before the State Game Commission. They said they hope it will lead to action in addressing the number of mountain lions in the Sandias.