Rumors of Bear Poaching in Humboldt County Proven False
Concerns about a possible poaching case in Eureka have been put to rest after a California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) investigation revealed a very different story.
On Sept. 3, CDFW received a report that two bears had been shot near Ridgewood Drive, just south of Eureka. Neighbors recalled hearing gunshots on the night of Aug. 30, sparking fears of illegal hunting. However, after interviewing residents and reviewing law enforcement records, officers determined the case did not involve poaching.
In the early morning hours of Aug. 31, the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office and California Highway Patrol responded to a report of an injured bear wandering into traffic. The animal, an adult male, showed signs of severe head trauma and was disoriented, likely the result of a vehicle strike. To prevent further suffering and protect drivers, CHP officers humanely euthanized the bear with three shots at approximately 4:30 a.m.
Officials confirmed that only one bear was involved and that the carcass was later removed by county road services. No evidence supports rumors of a second bear or illegal activity.
CDFW thanked the community for reporting potential wildlife crimes and reminded residents that Californians Turn In Poachers and Polluters (CALTIP) remains available 24/7 at 1-888-334-CALTIP.
