Black Bear Wreaks Havoc Inside Locked Subaru in Alaska
A curious black bear became trapped in a vehicle, causing extensive damage before being freed by authorities.
A black bear caused significant damage to a Subaru after it became trapped inside the unlocked vehicle in Juneau, Alaska, early Monday morning. The bear had previously entered two other vehicles before becoming stuck in the Subaru.
Witnesses reported hearing the car's horn blaring around midnight. A neighbor discovered the bear inside the vehicle and contacted the authorities. The car's owner, Michael Wilson, was alerted by responding officers. While police attempted to retrieve the keys, the bear had already damaged the car's wiring, rendering the doors inoperable.
"He was fighting pretty good to get out of the other door," Wilson told KTUU. Officers eventually used a rope to pry open the car door, allowing the bear to escape unharmed after approximately five to ten minutes.
Despite the bear's safe release, Wilson's Subaru sustained extensive damage. "The metal’s bent, all that plastic’s torn off, the chairs are torn off, the back seats are torn apart," Wilson described. Unfortunately, Wilson's insurance policy only covered liability, not comprehensive damage, leaving him responsible for the repairs.
Wilson attributed the increased bear activity in Juneau this season to heavy snowfall and a late spring that limited natural food sources. He advised residents to secure their vehicles and avoid leaving food or other attractants inside. "Lock your doors," Wilson urged. "Don’t leave any food, no candy."