Mystery Animal Attack Leaves Oklahoma Mother Fighting for Her Life

Alicia Maxey, a 38-year-old mother of four, was severely injured in a remote yard attack, prompting an investigation into the unknown predator.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 8:12pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up photograph of a torn and bloodied piece of clothing, the harsh flash illuminating the fabric's texture and damage in a stark, investigative manner.The grim aftermath of a mysterious animal attack leaves a mother of four fighting for her life.Pittsburg Today

A 38-year-old mother of four in Oklahoma, Alicia Maxey, is fighting for her life after a mysterious animal attack left her with severe injuries to her face, legs, and arms. The attack occurred in a remote yard, with Maxey reporting hearing a 'deep growl' before being knocked to the ground. Authorities are investigating the incident, as the scale of Maxey's injuries has prompted them to bring in wildlife experts to determine the type of animal responsible, with possibilities ranging from a bear or mountain lion to a domestic dog.

Why it matters

This case highlights the potential dangers of wildlife encounters, even in areas not typically associated with large predators. The uncertainty around the identity of the attacker also raises concerns about public safety and the need for better understanding of animal behavior and habitat in the region. Additionally, the impact on Maxey's family, as the primary breadwinner while her husband undergoes dialysis, underscores the broader implications of such incidents.

The details

According to reports, Maxey did not see the animal that attacked her, but she did report hearing a 'deep growl' right before the incident. A homeowner in the area who is also an EMT found Maxey unconscious and seriously injured about an hour after the attack. Maxey has needed four major surgeries so far and is still fighting for her life, with the Pittsburg County Sheriff describing the injuries as the worst he's seen in 38 years of law enforcement.

  • The attack occurred in a remote yard in Pittsburg County, Oklahoma.
  • Maxey was found unconscious and seriously injured about an hour after the attack.

The players

Alicia Maxey

A 38-year-old mother of four who is the primary breadwinner for her family as her husband undergoes dialysis.

Frankie McClendon

The Pittsburg County Sheriff, who has described the injuries sustained by Maxey as the worst he's seen in 38 years of law enforcement.

Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation (ODWC)

The state agency that provides information on wildlife populations and behavior in Oklahoma, including details on black bear and mountain lion activity in the region.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“In 38 years, I've never been involved in or seen anything like this in terms of injuries caused by a wild animal.”

— Frankie McClendon, Pittsburg County Sheriff

“I'm in too much pain to say anything right now.”

— Alicia Maxey

What’s next

Authorities are testing Maxey's clothing and other evidence for animal DNA to determine the type of predator responsible for the attack. Wildlife experts have been brought in to assist in the investigation, as the severe injuries have prompted concerns that the attacker may not have been a domestic dog.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers posed by wildlife, even in areas not typically associated with large predators. It highlights the need for increased public awareness and education about animal behavior, as well as the importance of emergency preparedness and response in remote or rural areas. The impact on Maxey's family also underscores the broader societal implications of such attacks.