Bear Attack in Monrovia: Woman Injured While Walking Dog

A woman in Southern California had a close call with a bear while out for a morning walk with her dog in Monrovia’s foothills. This unsettling incident occurred around 9:15 AM on Oak Glade Drive.

As she walked her dog, a bear approached her and swiped at her, causing a cut on her knee. She quickly escaped and made it to safety with her pet. Local police later reported that she was treated for injuries that were not life-threatening.

The attack took place in a typically quiet neighborhood near the San Gabriel Mountains. Officers from the Monrovia Police Station explained that the bear suddenly charged at her. Thankfully, both she and her dog were able to flee the scene. A neighbor promptly called 911, and emergency teams responded quickly.

In a surprising twist, several hours later, residents reported seeing two bears in the vicinity. One was spotted taking cover under a house, while video captured one bear evading traps set by wildlife officials.

Although the attack indeed shook some locals, others noted that bear sightings in this area aren’t out of the ordinary. “I can’t believe this happened. Since I moved here in 2020, I’ve never heard of a bear attacking anyone,” remarked a neighbor named Robert.

Another resident, Julie Strople, even recounted seeing a bear just moments before the incident. “It was really close, like only two feet away. I told it to go, and it actually walked away,” she said.

Following the attack, bears have reportedly been seen roaming around several yards nearby. Isaiah Baroccas, a resident, managed to capture a picture of one in his yard. “I almost wanted to cuddle it,” he admitted, though he later acknowledged the need for caution.

Wildlife officers responded by placing a bear trap at a nearby home after an owner mentioned that a bear had been residing under it for weeks and had even damaged his car’s cover.

Authorities have not confirmed if the bear involved in the attack is the same one seen by locals. Even so, many residents expressed a sense of safety living alongside the wildlife. “We’re so used to them that we sometimes joke about naming the bears,” said Robert.

Officials encourage anyone who encounters a bear to remain calm, avoid running, and back away slowly to give the animal space.