Bear attacks teenager in cabin in eastern Arizona

ALPINE, AZ (AZFamily) – A black bear was killed after attacking a teenager at a cabin in eastern Arizona Thursday night, according to state officials.

According to the Arizona Game and Fish Department, a 15-year-old boy was sitting in a cabin in Alpine when a bear came in through an open door and struck him from behind.

The bear then left the cabin and approached other family members before returning and striking the teenager’s arm. The teenager was taken to hospital with injuries to his face and arm.

AZGFD wildlife officers responded and were able to quickly locate and kill the male black bear, estimated to be three years old. The remains are being examined and tested for disease.

“Black bears are predators and should always be viewed as unpredictable and dangerous,” the AZGFD said in a press release about the attack.

This is the 16th bear attack on humans in Arizona since 1990. Two of these attacks were fatal.

The most recent incident occurred nearly a year ago, when a 66-year-old man was killed in an unprovoked attack near Prescott.

Arizona Game and Fish urges people visiting or living in parts of the state where bears live to always be aware of their surroundings.

The state agency advises storing food and other “bait” safely and not leaving food in tents or on grills. It also recommends not setting up camp near places where bears might search for food, such as bodies of water.

Hike in groups, make noise, and avoid scented lotions, deodorants, or perfume. Keep pets on a leash.

If you encounter a bear, according to the AZGFD, do not run away. Instead, back away slowly while maintaining eye contact with the bear.

Make yourself appear larger by showing off your arms or pulling your shirt/jacket higher than your head. Officials advise throwing objects and yelling at the bear and fighting back if it is attacked.

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