Mountain Lion Tranquilized After Seeking Shade In Acton Auto Shop

ACTON (CBSLA.com) — A mountain lion found seeking shade under an SUV at an Acton auto repair shop has been immobilized and will be released back into the wild, authorities said Friday.

The 75-pound female mountain lion was found at LJ Automotive, 415 Sierra Highway. The business was closed while workers waited for Department of Fish and Wildlife officers to arrive.

The mountain lion apparently surprised the shop's workers who were opening up for the day. Hank Barkefelt said he was knocked over by the lion when he went to unlock the back of the shop.

"I was lucky, very lucky," Barkefelt said.

The lion then sought shade under a Toyota Land Cruiser, but then escaped across the street where Fish and Wildlife officers caught up with the big cat.

The mountain lion was tranquilized, doused with water, and will be taken to an undisclosed location for release.