Alps hiker killed in bull attack

59-year-old dies while crossing a field in the Hautes-Alpes on a little-used mountain path

A HIKER has died after being charged by a bull while out on a Sunday morning stroll in the Hautes-Alpes.

The 59-year-old man and his wife were following a little-used mountain path through the village of Réallon, east of Gap.

They were crossing an enclosed field containing about 15 cattle when the bull charged.

Its horn tore into the man's thigh, severing an artery and the victim also suffered head injuries as he was dragged about 20 metres by the animal.

His wife, in shock, called the emergency services and the victim was airlifted to hospital but was dead on arrival.

Gendarmes in Briançon are carrying out an investigation.