Published 12:54 pm Thursday, May 7, 2026

A possible cougar sighting was reported at 7 p.m. on May 5.

Jefferson County issued a public information notice stating that the cougar came out of a field and into City Park on Oak Street.

“Oregon State Police and Oregon Fish and Wildlife have both been notified,” the press release said. “No tracks have been located at this time.”

The press release urges people to be cautious, but also said nothing has been confirmed.

“Since this has been brought to our attention, we wanted to make sure the public was aware of the possible sighting,” the press release said.

A woman on Bear Drive in Madras captured video of a possible cougar on her porch, which was shared with the Madras Pioneer.

This story is developing.