Glacier National Park officials are investigating what appears to be the park’s first fatal bear attack in nearly three decades after the body of a missing hiker was found Wednesday off a popular trail. The victim, identified as Anthony Pollio, 33, of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, disappeared Sunday while hiking near Lake McDonald. A search team discovered his remains in a densely wooded area about 50 feet from the Mt. Brown Trail, and the National Park Service said Thursday that his injuries were consistent with a bear encounter.
“Wildlife and law enforcement personnel are currently assessing the area for bear activity and any ongoing public safety concerns,” the Park Service said in a written statement. Trails leading from Lake McDonald Lodge were temporarily closed as the investigation continued.
Fatal bear attacks are rare in Glacier, which is home to both grizzly and black bears. The last recorded fatality occurred in 1998. In August of last year, a 34-year-old female hiker was injured — suffering wounds to her shoulder and arm — when a bear swatted her. Officials said that bear, accompanied by two cubs, was likely surprised and acted defensively.