Full Breakdown
Yearling Black Bear Euthanized After Vehicle Collision on Highway 14 Near Wetumpka
7/8/2026, 12:20:19 PM
Incident Overview
On Sunday at about 2:30 p.m., a year-old male black bear was struck by a vehicle traveling on Highway 14 near the Bumpers gas station in Wetumpka, Alabama. Game wardens from the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Wildlife and Freshwater (ADCNR) responded to reports of an injured bear. The animal left the roadway, entered a residential yard, and then moved roughly 10 feet into a nearby woods where it was found lying down with extensive injuries. ADCNR officials determined the injuries were not survivable and elected to euthanize the bear to prevent further suffering. The Elmore County sheriff’s office assisted in removing and burying the animal.
Background on Juvenile Bear Movements
ADCNR spokeswoman Marianne Gauldin said the second summer is the time of year when juvenile male black bears are on the move statewide. The bears are not yet fully grown, have not established territories, and often travel long distances away from their mothers. Consequently, sightings of black bears have become more common in June, July, and August, even in parts of Alabama where bears are not typically observed.
Official Statements & Responses
Gauldin stated the bear’s injuries “were not survivable and would have proven fatal in a short period of time,” and that the officer’s action “hastened its pending death without suffering.” The department emphasized that juvenile bears naturally roam during this season and urged the public to report sightings so they can be entered into the department’s database. The Elmore County sheriff’s office participated in the removal and burial.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It had extensive physical injuries that were not survivable and would have proven fatal in a short period of time,” — Marianne Gauldin, Spokeswoman, ADCNR
- “After evaluating its condition, our Officer appropriately dispatched the bear to hasten its pending death without suffering.” — Marianne Gauldin, Spokeswoman, ADCNR
- “It’s very common to see black bears in areas of Alabama where you haven’t typically seen them,” — Marianne Gauldin, Spokeswoman, ADCNR
- “Never approach a bear, and make sure it sees you: wave your arms, clap, holler, and allow the bear to move away from you via an easy escape route,” — Marianne Gauldin, Spokeswoman, ADCNR
Why It Matters
The collision demonstrates that juvenile black bears moving statewide can come into contact with vehicles on public roads in Alabama. Prompt reporting and timely wildlife response can reduce animal suffering and lower the risk of vehicle-related incidents.
What’s Next
Gauldin urged residents never to approach a bear, to remove attractants such as trash cans and pet food, and to report any bear sightings so the department can record them. The department will continue to track bear movements through its database.
