New Jersey State Police rescue bear cub on I-78

Troopers responded to a report of a lone cub spotted in a roadside ditch on the highway.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 11:24pm

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An abstract, impressionistic photograph showing the faint outline of a bear cub against a blurred background of highway infrastructure, conveying the precarious situation and the troopers' intervention to save the animal.

A state trooper's quick response helped rescue a young bear cub from the dangerous conditions of a major highway.Union Today

New Jersey State Police troopers rescued a bear cub found alone in a roadside ditch on I-78 East in Union Township. The officers responded to the unusual call and were able to safely retrieve the cub, likely saving its life.

Why it matters

Wildlife encounters on major highways can be extremely dangerous for both animals and drivers. The quick action of the state police troopers likely prevented a tragic outcome for the young bear cub and helped avoid any potential accidents on the busy interstate.

The details

According to the New Jersey State Police, the incident occurred on April 1 around 1:37 p.m. when troopers from the Troop 'B' Perryville Station responded to a report of a lone bear cub spotted in a ditch along I-78 East at milepost 12.2 in Union Township. The officers were able to safely retrieve the cub and remove it from the dangerous highway location.

On April 1, at approximately 1:37 p.m., troopers responded to the call.

The players