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15-year-old boy from Arizona attacked by bear while watching TV

“Thanks to the quick reaction of his brother and his family, they managed to distract the bear from what could have become a real tragedy in a matter of seconds.” –Shawn Wagner, Arizona Game & Fish Department Law Enforcement Director

A 15-year-old boy is recovering from an attack by a black bear that entered a home in an Arizona mountain community near the New Mexico border through an open door.

CBS5 reported that the boy, identified as Brigham Hawkins, was attacked while sitting alone watching television. He screamed for help and his family came to his aid and was able to distract the bear. Wildlife officials said the bear entered the home a second time before fleeing.

The boy suffered injuries to his face and arm. He has been given a rabies vaccination as a precaution but is expected to recover. Game wardens found the bear and shot it. The agency said it is believed to be about three years old and is being tested for diseases by agency specialists.

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