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PREVIOUSLY:

• Cal Fish and Wildlife Investigating Alleged Shooting Death of a Mama Bear and Cub Near Eureka

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Press release from the Department of Fish and Wildlife:

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) has resolved public concern regarding reports of a poached bear in Eureka. Following a thorough investigation, officers determined the bear was not the victim of poaching but was instead humanely euthanized by law enforcement after sustaining severe injuries, likely from a vehicle strike.

On Sept. 3, CDFW received a CALTIP report alleging two bears had been shot near Ridgewood Drive, south of Eureka. Neighbors reported hearing multiple gunshots during the overnight hours of Aug. 30, and suspicions circulated about potential poaching. A responding CDFW wildlife officer interviewed witnesses and canvassed the area but found no bear carcasses or physical evidence.

Further investigation revealed that, in the early morning of Aug. 31, law enforcement partners from the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) and California Highway Patrol (CHP) jointly responded to reports of an injured bear repeatedly entering the roadway on Ridgewood Drive. The animal displayed severe head trauma, walked in circles, and was unable to escape traffic. To relieve the animal’s suffering and to ensure public safety, CHP officers humanely euthanized the single adult male bear at approximately 4:30 a.m. Witness reports of three gunshots matched the number of rounds fired.

Interviews with multiple residents and officials confirmed that only one bear was involved. The carcass was removed on Sept. 2 by Humboldt County Road Services. No evidence supports claims of a second bear or illegal poaching. CDFW thanks community members who report suspected poaching and polluting incidents, which play a vital role in protecting California’s natural resources.

CALTIP (Californians Turn In Poachers and Polluters) is a confidential program for reporting wildlife crimes. Anyone with information about potential violations is urged to call 1-888-334-CALTIP (888-334-2258), available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.