Utah’s PANGUITCH (KSL.com) In Garfield County, a black bear killed a man who was sleeping in a cot by biting him.
The incident occurred Tuesday in the Bryce Woodlands community sometime between 10:30 and 11 p.m., according to the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources. A black bear wandered into the cot where a man was sleeping and woke him up.
According to a prepared statement from DWR, the man first remained motionless in the hopes that the bear would move on and leave the location, but the bear came up to him and bit his arm.
After receiving treatment at a Panguitch hospital, the man was discharged.
KSL.com has contacted DWR to inquire about whether the bear fled on its own or how the man managed to keep it at bay following the attack.
The bear was located at around 1 p.m. on Wednesday after DWR biologists and Department of Natural Resources officials visited the area.
According to DWR regulation, the male bear was put down after exhibiting aggressive behavior and hurting someone, and it was then sent for illness testing, the agency said.
The DWR advises people to hold their ground if they encounter a black bear as a safety precaution. Never lie down, act dead, or back up. Remain composed and give the bear time to get away. Additionally, the department advises using bear spray or another deterrent.
In addition, DWR authorities advise against attempting to outrun or outclimb a black bear.
A bear is not acting aggressively if it gets to its feet, grunts, groans, or makes other noises. According to the department, these are the ways a bear shows interest and improves its appearance or scent. Always defend yourself if a black bear attacks. And keep going. People have used rocks, sticks, backpacks, water bottles, and even their hands and feet to successfully protect themselves.
