2 bears killed following attack that left man, dog dead in South Florida: report
Share this @internewscast.com

A tragic bear attack resulted in the deaths of a man and his dog on Monday morning in Jerome, Florida, sparking a swift investigation and an urgent search for the bear involved.

Now, officials said two bears have been killed and removed from the area, according to a report from NBC affiliate WBBH.

The incident was reported shortly after 7 a.m., near Big Cypress Wildlife Management Area, when the victim’s daughter dialed 911 after discovering the deceased dog, as confirmed by Florida Fish and Wildlife officials during a press conference on Monday.

The victim, Robert Markel, an 89-year-old resident of Collier County, was discovered dead nearly 100 yards away from the location of the dog. By Monday afternoon, FWC officials had not yet determined whether the attacks were the work of a single bear or multiple bears, given the separate timing of the deaths.

Concerned that the bear was still in the area, four live bear traps were deployed that afternoon.

Courtesy: NBC affiliate WBBH Gulf Coast News (Alexa Velez)

On Tuesday morning, FWC confirmed to WBBH that two bears have been removed from the area.

“Out of an abundance of caution, we urge residents and visitors to remain vigilant and avoid the area. Do not approach or attempt to track wildlife,” authorities told WFLA.com on Monday.

WBBH said this would be the first deadly bear attack in Florida’s history.

The FWC says that if a bear is threatening the safety of humans or animals or causing property damage, contact wildlife officials. When bears feel threatened, they will moan, blow, huff, or stomp the ground, showing you they are uncomfortable and need space. To learn more about bear encounters, click here.

This incident remains an active investigation. WFLA.com has reached out to the FWC for additional information.

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like

Experience the Magic: Carriage Rides & Santa’s Mailbox at Christmas in Olde Jonesborough

On a crisp Saturday in December, the charming town of Jonesborough, Tennessee,…

Comprehensive Overview of Fatal Campus Shootings Across U.S. Colleges

A tragic incident unfolded at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, over…

Tragedy Strikes Brown University: Fatal Shooting Shakes Rhode Island Campus

PROVIDENCE, R.I. – In a tragic turn of events that has shaken…

ETSU Celebrates Milestone: Over 1,300 Graduates Awarded Diplomas at Vibrant Commencement Ceremonies

JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WJHL) — On Saturday, East Tennessee State University (ETSU)…

Tragic End to High-Speed Chase: Titusville Man Killed as Pursuit Ends in Fiery Crash, FHP Reports

BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. – In a tragic turn of events Friday night,…

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis Urges Change with Proposed National Amendment

DELRAY BEACH, Fla. – In a spirited address this week, Florida Governor…

Authorities Probe Greene County House Fire That Claimed Lives

GREENEVILLE, Tenn. (WJHL) — Tragedy struck early Saturday morning when a man…

Jury Awards $40 Million to Cancer Patients in Johnson & Johnson Talcum Powder Case

A jury in Los Angeles delivered a $40 million judgment on Friday…

Exclusive Q&A: Insights from BWXT President on the Future of Depleted Uranium Facilities

JONESBOROUGH, Tenn. — In an exclusive interview with News Channel 11, Ron…

Fernando Mendoza Clinches the Coveted Heisman Trophy: A New Era in College Football Dominance

He stands out as the first individual from Indiana to clinch college…

Brace for Impact: Arctic Air Invades Pacific Northwest Amidst Severe Flooding Aftermath

A chilling wave of arctic air is surging southward from Canada, making…

Meet Your New Furry Friend: Leo, Walker, Sweet Pea, and Kia Ready for Adoption This Saturday at Tails and Paws

On Saturday, December 13, 2025, WJHL presents Tails and Paws, a segment…