'Aggressive' Black Bear Shuts Down Morris Co. Park, Trails

MORRIS COUNTY, NJ — Encounters with an "aggressive" black bear have temporarily shut down a Morris County park system, according to police.

The Morris County Park Commission informed the Denville Police Department this afternoon that the Tourne County Park and trails will be closed until further notice.

The closure is the result of several reports of a black bear acting aggressively toward park visitors, particularly dog owners who let their pets run free.

A total of three sightings have been reported, and there was one particular incident involving a park visitor and a sow protecting its three cubs, police said.

Police did not elaborate on what happened during each sighting or whether more than one bear was seen.

The Morris County Sheriff's Patrol Unit has stated that the park will be monitored during its closure.

Denville Police ask that all residents and visitors follow the closure for their own safety until the park reopens.

According to a report by the Daily Record, a trap is being set up for the bear.

Residents in the park's vicinity should exercise caution when encountering or observing any black bear, and should immediately report any aggressive or unusual encounters to the police department at 973-627-4900, ext. 9.

Tourne County Park is a 561-acre general-purpose park with 10.7 miles of trails. Hiking, fishing, horseback riding, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and sledding are all available in this park throughout the year.