WEST GLACIER, Mont. — Park officials have discovered the body of a missing hiker in Glacier National Park, marking what appears to be the first fatal bear encounter at the Montana destination in more than 25 years.
According to a Thursday statement from the National Park Service, “His injuries are consistent with those sustained by a bear encounter.” Officials added that “Wildlife and law enforcement personnel are currently assessing the area for bear activity and any ongoing public safety concerns.”
Search crews located the victim’s remains Wednesday in thick forest vegetation approximately 50 feet from the Mt. Brown Trail. While park officials have not released additional specifics, they had been conducting a search operation for Anthony Pollio, a 33-year-old Fort Lauderdale, Florida resident who vanished on Sunday.
Park rangers have temporarily shut down several hiking paths that begin near Lake McDonald Lodge as the investigation continues.
Both grizzly and black bear populations inhabit Glacier National Park. Last summer, a bear struck a 34-year-old female hiker, injuring her arm and shoulder area. Park officials determined that the bear, which was traveling with two young cubs, likely reacted defensively after being startled.
