In a tragic incident that shocked the community, two brothers, lifelong outdoorsmen, were attacked by a mountain lion in Northern California over the weekend, resulting in the death of one and severe injuries to the other. The incident, which occurred in El Dorado County, is believed to be the first fatal cougar attack in California in two decades.

The victims, identified as Taylen Robert Claude Brooks, 21, and his brother Wyatt Jay Charles Brooks, 18, were described as close companions who shared a passion for hunting and fishing. The Brooks family, from Mount Aukum in southern El Dorado County, mourned the loss of Taylen and expressed gratitude that Wyatt survived, acknowledging that the outcome could have been even more devastating.

The attack took place while the brothers were combing a forested area in Georgetown for deer antlers. Wyatt called for help after the mountain lion attacked both of them, leaving him with traumatic injuries to his face. During the attack, the brothers became separated, and rescuers initially found and treated Wyatt before discovering Taylen's tragic fate.

Law enforcement officials promptly responded to the scene and scared off the mountain lion by shooting in its direction. Later, the animal was located and killed by officials from the Department of Fish and Wildlife and a local trapper. The body of the mountain lion will be examined to determine the reason behind the attack.

Taylen Brooks was known for working with his father as a painter and a firewood cutter. Described as a kind and gentle soul, he had a love for fishing and was a talented guitar player. Wyatt Brooks, on the other hand, was training to become a firefighter. Despite his severe injuries, he is expected to make a full recovery after undergoing multiple surgeries.

The last known fatal mountain lion attack in California occurred in 2004 in Orange County, when a cyclist was killed. In 1994, another attack took place in El Dorado County, where a jogger lost her life on a trail in the Sierra foothills. While such incidents remain rare, wildlife officials warn that as human development encroaches further into wilderness areas, encounters between humans and mountain lions are expected to increase.

The Brooks family has established an online fundraiser to commemorate Taylen's memory and provide support for Wyatt as he recovers. The community has come together in solidarity to offer condolences and express their support for the family during this difficult time.

As authorities delve into the reasons behind this tragic attack, it serves as a stark reminder of the importance of understanding the behavior of wildlife and working towards coexistence in regions where human activity and wilderness intersect.