Bear Euthanized in Monrovia After Attacking Woman, Despite Relocation Pleas

State officials made the decision to euthanize the bear, despite calls from city leaders to relocate the animal and her cubs.

Mar. 18, 2026 at 6:39am

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A black bear that injured a woman in Monrovia on Saturday has been euthanized by state officials, despite requests from the city to relocate the animal and her cubs to the Angeles National Forest. The incident occurred when the bear charged at a woman walking her dog and swiped at the back of her knee, resulting in non-serious injuries. DNA evidence linked the bear to a similar incident in June where she swiped at an elderly man. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife determined that these two incidents involving human injury justified the bear's euthanasia, in accordance with state policy.

Why it matters

This case highlights the increasing challenges of human-wildlife interactions as development encroaches on natural habitats. While public safety is a priority, the decision to euthanize the bear has sparked outrage from some community members who are concerned about the loss of wildlife in California following recent fires. Balancing public safety with conservation efforts is a complex issue with no uncomplicated solutions.

The details

The bear and her two cubs were captured on Sunday, with CDFW planning to release the cubs into wildland areas. Monrovia City Manager Dylan Feik announced that the decision to euthanize the mother bear was ultimately outside of local control, as CDFW officials determined that the two incidents involving human injury were sufficient justification for euthanasia under state policy.

  • On Saturday around 9:20 a.m., the bear charged at a woman walking her dog and swiped at the back of her knee.
  • In June, the bear swiped at an elderly man on his porch in the same area.

The players

California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW)

The state agency responsible for managing and protecting California's wildlife, including black bears.

Dylan Feik

The Monrovia City Manager who announced the decision to euthanize the bear, stating it was ultimately outside of local control.

Kevin Oberon

The Monrovia Police Lieutenant who provided details about the bear attack on Saturday.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

What’s next

The situation highlights the need for communities to work closely with wildlife agencies to develop strategies for minimizing human-bear conflicts, such as through public education campaigns, securing food sources, and exploring non-lethal deterrence methods.

The takeaway

As development continues to encroach on natural habitats, the challenge of balancing public safety with wildlife conservation will only grow more complex. This incident underscores the need for collaborative, community-based approaches that prioritize the wellbeing of both residents and the local ecosystem.