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FLORIDA - A tragic incident in rural southwest Florida has left an 89-year-old man and his dog dead after what authorities believe may be the first fatal black bear attack in the state's history.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) confirmed that Robert Markel was found dead early Monday outside his home in Jerome, a remote community near the Big Cypress Wildlife Management Area.
Markel’s daughter reportedly called 911 after witnessing a bear attacking the family’s dog, which was chained outside.
Authorities later found Markel's body in nearby woods.
FWC officials responded by securing the area, setting traps, and deploying cameras.
Three black bears were euthanized within the vicinity, and DNA samples from the bears and the scene have been sent to a Gainesville laboratory to determine if any of them were involved in the fatal encounter.
While the agency is awaiting test results, they stated the bears were euthanized out of concern for public safety.
The FWC emphasized that lethal action is only taken when there’s a perceived threat to human life.
Florida’s black bear population has made a strong comeback since the 1970s, with estimates now exceeding 4,000 statewide.
Although bear sightings have become more frequent, especially in rural and suburban areas, fatal encounters remain extremely rare.
If confirmed, this would be the first time a person in Florida has died from a black bear attack.
Officials are urging residents to stay cautious and avoid the area while the investigation continues.