In the Jaws of a Dilemma

Randy Waters is a game warden in Trinidad, Colorado. His favorite animals are bears and he frequently gives demonstrations at Trinidad Lake State Park about bears to familiarize people with the animals. He finds himself in the middle of an investigation following the death of a young woman who appears to have been mauled by a bear. The County Sheriff and Trinidad Police turn the case over to Randy because of their opinion that it is an open and shut case of an animal kill. Randy is not so sure a bear killed the woman. He sees signs that just don’t add up and asks for help from his friend in Colorado Springs. The detective takes some time off and travels to Trinidad to help Randy. The case evolves into a situation that causes a great deal of trouble for the community. Some vigilantes are out looking for killer bears and shooting any bear they see, but Randy and Don focus on several suspects who seem to have something to hide, including an ex-professional quarterback. The football player’s mountain retreat provides clues that make Randy and Don suspicious of his involvement, including a unique killing machine. Eventually the confrontation leads to a gunfight and chase in the mountains near Raton Pass. A beautiful television journalist and a taxidermist all play a role in the case that is eventually solved by Randy and Don. This is the first in a series of stories featuring Randy Waters.