Man Says 500-lb Bear Attacked Him On His N.J. Property: Police

POHATCONG, NJ — A Pohatcong Township man was attacked by a large black bear Wednesday while trying to feed his cat on his property, according to Mayor James R. Kern III.

"This department HAS NOT confirmed that there was a bear encounter this morning," Pohatcong Township Police Department said via Facebook at 2:30 p.m., Aug. 3. "The incident is still be investigated and more information will be released as it becomes available."

"Our department will continue thier investigation of the reported bear attack. I commend the police, medical and wildlife professionals for their work on this incident today. We hope to have this matter finalized in the next day," Kern said.

The man described the bear as being between 450 and 500 pounds, police said.

The man, who lives at 342 C.R. 627, said he walked out his back door and onto the porch to feed his cat when he saw the black bear eating left over cat food on the porch, Pohatcong Township Police Department stated on Facebook.

The bear was described as being between 450 and 500 pounds, police said.

Startled by the man, the bear swiped at the man causing injury to his arm and hand. The bear then ran from the porch and into a nearby cornfield, police said.

"The bear ran into a more rural area than where he already was, so there is no immediate danger to the public," Kern told Patch.

He was transported to St.Luke's-Warren Hospital for treatment. His injuries appeared to be non-life threatening.

NJ Fish and Wildlife and the police were called to the scene and are still looking to trap the bear.

"Please be sure not to leave any food (garbage) laying around your residence," police stated. "The caller stated he sees the bear on a daily basis and we expect to be able to trap it soon."

Check back for updates.

(Image via Morguefile)

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