Canton Woman Nipped by Bear: Police

CANTON, CT - Police say a Canton woman was allegedly nipped by a bear in her yard Friday afternoon.

Around 3:36 p.m., the Canton Police Department received a complaint from the homeowner that she had been nipped in the yard of 20 Atwater Road, according to a press release from the department.

Responding personnel found the caller with a very minor bruise, and the bear reportedly left the area. She was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment of the minor injuries, police said.

The homeowner reported that while gardening, a bear approached her and nipped her. The homeowner said she scared the bear off and it ran into the woods in an easterly direction, police said.

The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection was notified and immediately responded to the scene. DEEP personnel initiated efforts to locate and trap the animal, police said.

This investigation has been taken over by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection and all further inquiries should be directed to DEEP.

Homeowners are reminded to keep a safe distance from bears. Take down bird feeders and remove outdoor attractants such as garbage cans. More helpful information can be found at the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection web site.

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