Bear attacks couple, dog on Blue Ridge Parkway, officials say

Sep 30, 2021




ASHEVILLE, N.C. —
A bear attacked a couple in the parking lot of an Asheville area art center this week, prompting warnings and safety precautions, officials said.

It happened Wednesday evening at the Folk Art Center on the Blue Ridge Parkway, according to a release from the National Park Service.

The couple was having a picnic on a grassy hill near the center when they were alerted to a bear by their dog, the release said.

The unleashed dog ran towards the bear, barking loudly, according to the release.

The bear acted defensively toward the dog and the couple, likely aggravated by the dog, officials said.

There were repeated attacks by the bear over the next several minutes while the couple was able to get to the safety of their vehicle with their dog.

The couple drove to Mission Hospital, where they were both treated for their injuries and released, officials said.

"Due to the bold and aggressive nature of this attack, temporary closures are in place on all trails in the area and outdoor food is currently prohibited," the release said.

Closures and restrictions include:

The Mountains to Sea Trail from the intersection with the Visitor Center Loop Trail near parkway milepost 384 to Riceville Rd. Bridge at milepost 382
The Folk Art Center Nature Loop Trail and all trails accessed off of Bull Mountain Road
Picnicking is prohibited between the Asheville Visitor Center and adjacent parking areas near parkway milepost 384 to the Haw Creek Overlook near milepost 380
Park rangers and wildlife biologists, in coordination with NC Wildlife Resources Commission, are attempting to capture the bear and conducting and foot patrols of the immediate area.

An investigation of the scene was conducted and forensic evidence was collected to be used for DNA analysis. If the offending bear is captured and positively identified, officials will humanely euthanize the animal, per park and NCWRC protocol.

Visitors are reminded that the fall is a critical feeding period for bears before they enter winter hibernation.

Park visitors should take necessary precautions and be what officials called "BearWise" while in bear country, including properly following food storage regulations, keeping pets leashed and remaining at a safe viewing distance from bears.

If attacked by a black bear, rangers recommend fighting back with any object available. Rangers also say that bears may view you and your pets as prey.

Though rare, attacks on humans do occur and can cause injuries or death. 

More bear safety tips are available on the Parkway's Bear Safety page and about bear safety with dogs at Bearwise.org. If you encounter a bear while on the Parkway, call 828-298-2491 or stop at the nearest Visitor Center to report it.  

https://www.wyff4.com/article/bear-a...rkway/37811297