Walking to a store in the small town of Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania, Andrew Nierer couldn’t have anticipated the life-threatening ordeal ahead.
On January 19, he crossed paths with a 100-pound black bear, and what followed was nothing short of terrifying.
The Frightening Chase and Attack
Security footage captured the moment Nierer tried to flee from the bear, which aggressively pursued him.
Despite his efforts to escape, the animal lunged at him, using its claws to pin him down.
Before the situation escalated further, a nearby neighbor stepped in and shot the bear, ending the attack.
Reflecting on the incident, Nierer told WYOU, “It could’ve been a lot worse. Luckily, he saved me. He shot it.”
Unusual Behavior Confirmed by Authorities
The Pennsylvania Game Commission described the bear’s actions as highly abnormal.
They explained that black bears rarely exhibit aggressive behavior toward humans unless provoked.
Following the incident, the bear was tested and found to be rabid, providing an explanation for its uncharacteristic aggression.
Sympathy for the Struggling Animal
Despite his injuries, Nierer expressed compassion for the bear, attributing its behavior to hunger and the unusual weather patterns.
“They’re hungry. They’re starving. They’re supposed to be in hibernation,” he explained.
“This weather is weird lately—hot, cold, warm, cold. I feel bad for the bear because they really don’t bother you that much.”
The Rare Threat of Rabies in Bears
The Game Commission assured the public that rabies in bears is an extremely rare occurrence, with cases typically isolated.
They also noted that male bears tend to den alone, reducing the likelihood of spreading the disease to others.
However, the incident serves as a reminder of the potential risks rabies poses to all mammals.
A Full Recovery Ahead
Fortunately, Nierer is expected to make a full recovery, thanks to prompt medical treatment.
While the experience was terrifying, it highlights the importance of community vigilance and preparedness in dealing with unexpected wildlife encounters.
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