Great Smoky Mountains National Park rangers were trying to determine whether a black bear killed a backpacker/Tennessee Wildlife Resources
A black bear found scavenging human remains was put down at Great Smoky Mountains National Park early Saturday, leaving investigators to determine whether the man was killed by the bear.
Backpackers Friday afternoon on the Hazel Creek Trail spotted what appeared to be human remains and a bear scavenging in the area near campsite 82, where there was an unoccupied tent, a park release said Saturday.
The hikers quickly left to obtain cell coverage and report the incident to the authorities. Law enforcement rangers and wildlife officers reached the campsite shortly after midnight, confirmed the report of a deceased adult human male, and killed a bear seen scavenging on the remains.
Rangers were working Saturday to notify the next of kin. The cause of death was unknown, and the case under active investigation, the park release said.
The Hazel Creek Trail was to remain closed until further notice between the junction with Cold Springs Gap Trail and Welch Ridge Trail.
Comments
What a shame we have to kill animals for being animals.
It is very sad that the bear had to be put down, just doing what bears do. We move into their homes and blame them. I understand the reasoning, but just hate it for the bear. Praying the death of hiker was prior to the bear encounter.
Yes it is a damn shame.
I hope the death of the backpacker was before the bear encounter. It will be too bad that the late bear was scavenging.
I hope the murderer has already been dealt with and we don't have to go looking for a human. Or it was accidental. That is my hope.
But we need to be aware they are there and can be dangerous. I would never go
Into a forest with bears without a gun.
Montana has 600. Planned on 200.
When s bear is Hungary he I going to eat.
You have to kill it as it has tasted humans.
Black beers and brown beers are very different...