Terrifying Encounter in the Wild
A peaceful camping trip in Arkansas’s rugged Ozark Mountains ended in tragedy when a 60-year-old Missouri man was fatally mauled by a black bear—the second deadly bear attack in the state in just one month.
The victim was found Thursday near his tent at Sam’s Throne Campground in Newton County. Authorities discovered drag marks leading from the campsite into the woods and signs of a violent struggle. The Arkansas State Crime Lab ruled the cause of death an “animal mauling,” consistent with a large carnivore attack.
Not Just Any Bear
Sheriff Glenn Wheeler said investigators believe the attacker was a juvenile male black bear—likely recently weaned and separated from its mother this year. Though smaller than adult bears, juveniles can still weigh over 100 pounds and may act unpredictably when stressed or hungry.
“We believe it to be a juvenile male that was likely weaned and kicked off its mother this year,” Sheriff Wheeler explained. He added that the bear has distinguishing markings, which could help officials confirm its identity once captured.
State on High Alert
- 🌲 Campground closed: Sam’s Throne and surrounding trails are shut indefinitely.
- 🐾 Search in full swing: Local hunters and tracking dogs are assisting law enforcement.
- ⚠️ Bear traps deployed: Authorities aim to capture—not kill—the animal unless public safety is at risk.
A Disturbing Pattern?
This marks the second fatal black bear attack in Arkansas in September and October 2025. In late September, 72-year-old Vernon Patton died after being attacked while working on a tractor in Franklin County—about 90 miles west of the latest incident.
Despite these rare tragedies, black bears remain the least aggressive bear species in North America. According to the World Animal Foundation, fewer than one person per year is killed by black bears across the continent, which is home to roughly 750,000 of them.
“I don’t want this to become open season on any bear that someone may see,” Sheriff Wheeler cautioned. “Most bears fear humans and run away.”
Officials urge hikers and campers to avoid feeding wildlife, secure food properly, and never approach bears—even if they appear calm.
Sources
The New York Times: Bear Fatally Mauls Camper in the Ozarks in Arkansas
