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Florida Man and Beloved Dog Involved In a Fatal Bear Attack

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Author Alana Theron, BSc in Biodiversity and Ecology

In a tragic incident near Jerome, Florida, an 89-year-old man and his dog were fatally attacked by a black bear on the man’s property. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is investigating what could be the state’s first recorded fatal bear attack.

A Routine Morning Turns Fatal

Massive 450-Pound Grizzly Known as ‘The Boss’ Takes a Rare Trip to Canmore
The Boss, a huge grizzly bear usually seen around Banff National Park, was spotted in the Canmore area recently by a local wildlife photographer. (Jason Leo Bantle)

On the morning of May 5, 2025, Robert Markel’s daughter witnessed a bear attacking and killing her father’s dog around 7 a.m. Shortly after, she discovered her father’s body on the property. Authorities believe the bear attack on Markel may have occurred hours earlier.

Wildlife Officials Respond

Screenshot from “Suspected fatal bear attack: Man and dog killed in Florida | People told to avoid the area”; Uploaded: KHOU 11; Source: YouTube.

Following the incident, the FWC placed four bear traps in the vicinity and recovered a dead bear from nearby woods later that evening after hearing loud noises. DNA testing is underway to confirm whether the bear was responsible for the attacks.

Rising Bear Encounters in Florida

A bear wandering in the woods.
A bear wandering in the woods. Image via Pexels

Florida’s black bear population, estimated at around 4,000, primarily resides in forests and swamps. However, there has been an increase in bear sightings on private properties, particularly in rural areas. The FWC has noted that human-bear interactions are becoming more common as bear habitats overlap with residential areas.

Safety Measures and Public Awareness

A close-up photo of a brown bear.
A close-up photo of a brown bear. Image via Pexels

In light of the incident, the FWC has issued safety guidelines for human-bear encounters:

  • Do not run or climb trees when faced with a bear.
  • Slowly back away and avoid direct eye contact.
  • If attacked, fight back aggressively using any available objects.

These measures aim to reduce the risk of bear attacks and ensure public safety.

A Community in Mourning

a large brown bear standing on its hind legs
Brown Bear. Image via Unsplash

The community near Jerome is grappling with the shock of this unprecedented event. As investigations continue, residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any bear sightings to authorities.

Remembering Robert Markel

A grizzly bear wandering on the woods.
A grizzly bear wandering on the woods. Image via Pexels

Robert Markel, a long-time resident of Collier County, is remembered as a kind neighbor and devoted pet owner. His untimely death serves as a somber reminder of the unpredictable nature of wildlife and the importance of coexistence and caution.

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