Update 3:00 pm
Florida Fish and Wildlife says the man who was killed lived on the property where the attack happened. They say it's the first deadly bear attack in Florida since FWC started tracking attacks.
They believe the bear is a black bear.
"The bear involved may still be in the area," FWC Officer George Reynaud said. "As our officers continue to secure the perimeter, out of an abundance of caution, we urge residents and visitors to remain vigilant and avoid the area."
Update 1:15 pm
Florida Fish and Wildlife just released a statement that says it's preliminary report found that a bear killed a man and his dog. Here's the statement:
The FWC is actively investigating a suspected fatal wildlife attack, that’s been reported to involve a bear, near Jerome in Collier County. The incident occurred in the area of State Road 29 and U.S. 41, just south of Big Cypress Wildlife Management Area.
Preliminary information notes that the attack resulted in the death of a man and a dog.
The animal involved may still be in the area as FWC continues to secure the perimeter. 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. Law enforcement and FWC personnel are working to locate the animal and ensure public safety.
More information will be released as the investigation continues.
Original Story
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission are investigating a potential bear attack, Monday morning.
The Collier County Sheriff's Office confirmed to Fox 4 that they were called around 7 a.m. about a man killed in a possible bear attack. After finding the body, deputies could not confirm how the man died.
The victim was off 22777 State Road 29 in Collier County, according to FWC.
FWC could not confirm how the man died, either, as of 9 a.m. But, they do expect to have an update, later today.
Fox 4 has a crew headed to the area to learn more.
