Story perspectives

Erratic Bear Euthanized After Attacking Woman in Store

9/18/2025

Summary

Story summary

A 175-pound black bear was euthanized in Vernon Township, New Jersey, after biting a 90-year-old woman in a Dollar General store on September 16, 2025.
Prior to the incident, the bear exhibited erratic behavior, threatening people and pets.
Witnesses saw the bear attack a dog and chase employees before entering the store.
Police used rubber bullets to scare the bear away, but it returned.
Local officials advised against approaching bears and recommended backing away slowly if encountered.

History

Historical Context

In 2014, New Jersey's Division of Fish and Wildlife reported over 3,000 black bears, leading to increased human-bear interactions. A bear attack on a 90-year-old woman in Vernon Township highlighted ongoing wildlife management challenges in suburban areas. Such incidents may influence future policies on bear population control and public safety education, reflecting the complexities of coexisting with wildlife.

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Story summary

A 175-pound black bear was euthanized in Vernon Township, New Jersey, after biting a 90-year-old woman in a Dollar General store on September 16, 2025.
Prior to the incident, the bear exhibited erratic behavior, threatening people and pets.
Witnesses saw the bear attack a dog and chase employees before entering the store.
Police used rubber bullets to scare the bear away, but it returned.
Local officials advised against approaching bears and recommended backing away slowly if encountered.

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