Wildlife Officials Urge Caution as Search for Bear Continues in Collier County
In a tragic and unprecedented event, an 89-year-old man and his dog were killed in a suspected black bear attack near Jerome, Florida, on Monday, May 6, 2025. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) confirmed the attack happened in a wooded area off State Road 29 near Copeland, just south of the Big Cypress Wildlife Management Area.
Victim Identified as Robert Markel
The victim has been identified as Robert Markel, a longtime resident of the Jerome area. According to officials, Markel was at his residence with his dog when the attacks occurred. His daughter reportedly witnessed a bear attacking the dog and, after investigating further, discovered her father’s body nearby. The FWC stated that the attacks on the man and his dog happened at different times but within a couple hundred yards of each other.
First Recorded Fatal Bear Attack in Florida
This marks the first documented fatal bear attack in Florida since records began in the 1970s. Although bear attacks are extremely rare in the state, there have been 42 recorded incidents involving injuries from black bears. Previous bear-related incidents in Collier County occurred in 2008 and 2018, both involving individuals who were with dogs at the time of the encounters.
Ongoing Search and Public Safety Efforts
The FWC, along with local law enforcement, has deployed four live bear traps in the area and is using drones to assist in the search for the bear. Officials have urged residents and visitors to stay away from the area and to remain vigilant. The FWC stressed the importance of avoiding any contact with wildlife and not attempting to track or approach bears under any circumstances.
Bear Population Growth and Rising Encounters
Florida’s black bear population has grown significantly over the past few decades after once being classified as threatened. With the increase in bear numbers, sightings and encounters with humans have become more frequent, particularly in rural areas across north and central Florida. Wildlife officials continue to remind residents to secure food and garbage to reduce the chances of bear encounters.
The investigation is ongoing, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
