Bear Killed by DNR Officer in St. Paul

St. Paul, MN (KROC-AM News) - The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources today reported that a bear was shot and killed in a residential area of North St. Paul.

A DNR conservation officer took the action after authorities determined the bear posed an immediate threat to public safety. The male bear was estimated to be around 2 years old and weighed between 110 and 120 pounds.

A statement from the DNR notes that due to the density of residences and roads in the area, it was unlikely the bear would have been able to escape back into the wilderness. The agency also noted the growing interest in the bear's location was creating a gathering of onlookers, which was adding to the potential danger.

The news release also states the DNR does not tranquilize or relocate bears. Relocated bears seldom remain where they are released. They may return to where they were caught or become a problem somewhere else.

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