SIMSBURY — A bear was euthanized today after it broke into a local home on Old Canal Way, according to the Simsbury Police Department.
The incident occurred around 12:49 p.m. when a homeowner called 911 to report a bear inside the residence.
The Simsbury Police dispatcher confirmed that no individuals were in the house at the time and ensured the homeowner was directed to safety.
Officers arrived at the scene to find the bear still inside the home.
It had entered through an open window on the back deck and had been searching for food, leading to a ransacked household.
The Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) was immediately contacted for assistance.
Following the State of Connecticut’s guidelines for black bear incidents, DEEP officers decided that the bear needed to be euthanized.
The animal was safely put down by DEEP officers after it left the house.
Authorities have stated that this was an isolated incident and reassured the public there is no current danger.
The Simsbury Police Department reminds residents to keep a safe distance from bears and other large wildlife, and to call 911 if an animal appears aggressive or poses a safety risk.
Lieutenant Bradford Chase expressed gratitude toward the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection for their prompt response and assistance in handling the situation.
