Nearly three weeks after a 33-year-old hiker was killed in an alleged bear attack in Glacier National Park, wildlife experts are grappling with this “stunningly rare” incident. Authorities are keen to understand what might have triggered the conflict, shedding light on the bear’s potential future. Determining these details is crucial in deciding the bear’s fate.
Anthony Pollio from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, was reported missing on May 4 after not returning from a hike on Glacier Park’s west side. His remains were found two days later, 50 feet from the Mt. Brown Trail, within dense woods near Lake McDonald. A can of bear spray was near the site, but it’s unclear if it belonged to Pollio or if it was used, said National Park Service spokesperson Autumn Sifuentes.
Trails near Lake McDonald, where the attack likely occurred, remain closed as of Friday. While Pollio’s injuries hint at a bear attack, park officials haven’t identified the bear or determined its location.
Bear and lion specialist Erik Wenum, who has over 30 years of experience with Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks, is investigating the incident. Wenum couldn’t comment on the investigation but shared insights into the process, explaining, “We’re trying to figure out the who, the how, and the why.”
Bear attacks in Glacier and Montana are rare. Since 1967, there have been ten fatal encounters at the park, with the last in 1998. Notable was the 1967 incident when two bears killed two women on the same night. Outside Glacier, more recent fatalities include a 2021 attack near Ovando and a 2016 grizzly incident near West Glacier.
In suspected bear attacks across northwest Montana, experts like Wenum collect extensive scene data. “We look at the big picture and then zoom in,” Wenum explained. This includes taking photos and gathering DNA samples. Investigations can resemble criminal cases; some reported bear attacks turn out to be murders, such as one case in Gallatin County in 2024.
Experts categorize attacks as surprise, defensive, or predatory, to assess future human threats. Surprise attacks happen when bears are startled, whereas defensive ones occur if a bear is protecting its cubs or food. Predatory attacks, where bears hunt humans, are most concerning. Signs include the bear consuming or burying its victim, often staying near the area.
Suspected bears are captured and tranquilized for DNA matching. If confirmed as a threat, especially in predatory cases, euthanization may follow. Despite the rarity, even winning the lottery is more common, Wenum noted.
Travelers in bear habitats must be cautious. Bear spray is essential, and making noise can prevent unexpected encounters. “Always be aware of your surroundings,” Wenum warned. “And know that you’re in bear country.”
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