UPDATE – JULY 18, 11:33 AM
A bear cub that was rescued from a tree in downtown Roanoke on Monday night has been euthanized, according to the Virginia Dept. of Wildlife Resources (DWR).
Officials said the bear was removed from the tree without any problems.
Once the bear was removed safely, it was assessed and DWR officials decided the “best path forward was to humanely euthanize him due to his current health conditions. He was unable to thrive in the wild.”
DWR released the following statement:
UPDATE
A bear cub that was in a Downtown Roanoke tree Monday evening has been rescued.
10 News was at the scene to watch when a firefighter was raised up from the firetruck to remove the tranquilized bear from the tree.
According to Roanoke Police, the bear cub was not harmed during the process on Monday evening. It has not been transported to a more suitable area, according to police.
People were asked to avoid the area as crews worked on a safe resolution for both the public and the cub.
ORIGINAL STORY
The Roanoke Police Department is asking the public to avoid downtown after a bear cub was spotted in Market Square.
Police say they are currently working on a safe resolution for both the public and the cub.
We’re told RPD’s Animal Warden Unit is on the scene and has been in contact with the Department of Game and Inland Fisheries.
“Please avoid downtown and give the bear his/her space,” Roanoke Police wrote on Facebook.
As of 4:35 p.m., Campbell Ave SE was blocked off to traffic.
10 News has a crew on the way working for you to learn more.
You can find safety tips by clicking here. Visit the Virginia Department of Wildlife’s Bear resource page here.
Source: WSLS News 10