Bear Euthanized after Scavenging Body in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Rangers euthanized a bear Saturday after it was found scavenging the body of a hiker near a backcountry campsite in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

According to park spokesperson Jamie Sanders, hikers found an unoccupied tent at campsite 82 during the afternoon of September 11, 2020. The hikers subsequently discovered what appeared to be human remains across the creek and a bear scavenging the area. The hikers quickly left to obtain cell phone coverage and report the incident to the authorities. Park emergency communication staff received the initial report just after 7 p.m.

Law enforcement rangers and wildlife officers were immediately dispatched to the scene and arrived at campsite 82 shortly after midnight. They confirmed the report of a deceased adult human male. After observing a bear actively scavenging on the remains, the rangers euthanized the bear. 

Rangers are currently working to notify the man’s next of kin. The man’s cause of death is unknown and the case remains under active investigation. Officials withheld the man’s identity.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park officials closed campsite 82 and a section of Hazel Creek Trail between the juncture with Cold Springs Gap Trail and Welch Ridge Trail until further notice.

For more information on what to do if you encounter a bear while hiking, please visit the park website at http://www.nps.gov/grsm/naturescience/black-bears.htm. To report a bear incident, please call 865-436-1230.