Man, Dog Killed in Florida Black Bear Attack

A man and his dog were killed in a suspected black bear attack near the intersection of State Road 29 and U.S. 41 in Collier County, Florida, just south of the Big Cypress Wildlife Management Area. This marks the first recorded fatal bear attack in Florida since tracking began. Authorities confirmed the victim lived on the property where the attack happened and have not released his name. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and local law enforcement are searching for the bear, believed to still be in the area, and have urged residents to stay vigilant and avoid the region. Bear attacks remain extremely rare in Florida, but officials note that sightings and encounters are rising due to a rebounding black bear population. The public is advised to secure food sources and pets, and to promptly report any bear encounters as the investigation continues.