Will Tahoe’s Most Controversial Bear Be Killed? Tense Standoff Raises Stakes

A long-simmering conflict over Bear #753—nicknamed Hope—erupted again on Thursday, August 21, when the animal and her cub wandered into a vacation rental, igniting a stove and causing a tense neighborhood standoff.

According to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), the bear pushed in a window, entered the home, and accidentally turned on the gas. A CDFW staff member called 911 for fire assistance and monitored the situation with a paintball gun while the bears fled up a tree.

Bear #753 has been deemed a “conflict bear” by CDFW after allegedly breaking into at least 15 homes. The department previously ordered her to be trapped and euthanized, sparking outrage from BEAR League volunteers and local residents who argue human negligence, including unfed bear boxes and residents leaving windows unlatched, is to blame.

The Thursday incident drew dozens of neighbors and volunteers, who attempted to haze the bear away from the property and confront the CDFW employee. Tempers flared, with shouting matches, accusations, and cell phones recording the heated exchange. Eventually, the bear and her cub, known locally as Bounce, escaped the tree and left the area.

South Lake Tahoe police and councilmember David Jinkens arrived on scene, later confirming the city is planning a meeting with CDFW officials.

For now, Bear #753 and her cub remain on the run, while the community remains divided over whether the animals deserve a second chance, or pose too great a risk to public safety.