VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — A single-vehicle collision resulted in the death of a bear late Monday night, according to Virginia Beach police.
The incident was reported at approximately 9:47 p.m. Emergency responders, including animal enforcement, arrived at the scene but discovered the bear was deceased upon arrival. The specific location of the crash has not been disclosed.
This incident follows multiple bear sightings in Virginia Beach this year, including one in the Great Neck area in May. Witnesses reported another bear sighting near Kempsville Road and Battlefield Boulevard on Tuesday morning.
Virginia Beach police released a message including guidelines from the Department of Wildlife concerning interactions with black bears. Ciara Lewis, a local resident, expressed her concerns about the bear's death and the impact of ongoing construction on wildlife habitats.
Authorities have noted that bear sightings can increase when food sources are accessible in residential areas, but typically decline with the availability of natural food during the summer months. The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources indicated that while construction may be a contributing factor, pinpointing a single cause for the sightings is complex.
Lewis urged drivers in the area to remain vigilant for wildlife, emphasizing the importance of awareness amidst changing local ecosystems. Back in April, another bear was sighted in Virginia Beach's Alanton neighborhood.
News 3 is seeking additional details from Virginia Beach Animal Services and will provide updates as they become available.