Man and dog killed in Florida’s first deadly black bear attack – AL.com

For the first time in Florida’s history a person died as the result of a black bear attack.
After investigating the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission confirmed in a release that Robert Markel, 89, and his dog, were killed as the result of a bear attack over a week ago.
Markel was reported missing by family prompting the agency to investigate the death after signs of bear disturbances.
Markel’s remains were found 100 years yards from his home and the house showed signs that a bear had entered the residence.
The wildlife commission said that the following findings required the agency to lethally remove the animal(s) responsible:
The agency subsequently removed three black bears in the area and took DNA samples along with conducting necropsy.
One bear weighing 263 pounds was found to have Markel’s partial remains and DNA was found on the body.
“We want to thank the family for their cooperation as they navigate this challenging time, and our thoughts remain with them,” said FWC Chairman Rodney Barreto.
“I am proud of our staff’s professional response and support for the family as they faced an unfathomable event this week.”
The agency said that since the 1970s there were only 42 prior incidents of black bears making physical contact with people.
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