CAMDEN COUNTY, Mo. – A driver fatally struck a bear on a rural Missouri highway on Tuesday, according to the Missouri Department of Conservation.
Investigators say a driver in a vehicle struck a bear along Highway 5 near the Camden County-Laclede County line. The bear was pronounced deceased, then transported to Springfield conservation agents for examination.
A spokesperson with the Missouri Department of Conservation tells FOX 2 that there is no further investigation on MDC’s end and, based on preliminary information, it appeared the collision was on accident.
MDC could conduct tests on the bear to learn more about its age and migration patterns.
According to a 2023 Black Bear Program Annual Report from the Missouri Department of Conservation, nine bears died from vehicle collisions last year. That includes at least one fatal bear collision reported on I-55 in Festus, Missouri.
According to BearSmart.com, if you accidentally hit a bear while driving, you should call police if there are any significant human injuries or vehicle damages and call a local wildlife agency if there is a dead or injured bear to report for their assistance.
People involved in such crashes are asked to stay away from the bear to ensure safety. They should also document the scene and call their insurance company to report the crash when possible.