Bear Attacks Leave 1 Dog Dead, Another Injured In NJ Town: Officials

SPARTA, NJ — Officials said a black bear has attacked residents' dogs twice in Sparta Township recently, killing one dog and injuring another.

Police Chief Jeffery McCarrick said the incidents took place off of West Mountain Road on May 9 and May 13.

The first attack was reported on Graphic Boulevard, with the bear reportedly going after several dogs. The second encounter occurred on Mountain Spring Drive, which is less than a mile from Sparta High School.

"One of the incidents resulted in the death of the resident’s dog and the second resulted in injuries to the resident’s dog," McCarrick said.

Officials have not yet indicated if they suspect it was the same bear attacking on both dates, or two different bears.

Sparta Township Police and officials from New Jersey Fish and Wildlife are investigating both incidents, and also "taking appropriate measures to ensure public safety," the chief said.

"The Sparta Township Police Department will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as necessary," McCarrick said. "We appreciate the community's cooperation and vigilance during this time."

Police advise residents in the area of West Mountain Road to be cautious outdoors, and take precautions to avoid potential bear encounters. This includes properly securing garbage, and removing any food sources that might attract wildlife such as pet food, bird seed, or residue from a recently-used grill.

Anyone who sees an aggressive bear, or encounters aggressive wildlife, is asked to call the Sparta Township Police Department immediately at 973-729-6121.

In New Jersey, bears are most commonly seen in Morris, Sussex, Warren and northern Passaic counties, as well as portions of Hunterdon, Somerset and Bergen counties.