New Jersey State Troopers Rescue Bear Cub From Highway Ditch

The young animal was found alone on the side of Interstate 78 in Union Township.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 6:56pm

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An abstract, impressionistic photograph depicting a blurred, dreamlike scene of a bear cub resting in a grassy meadow, surrounded by soft, warm tones that evoke a sense of natural tranquility.A serene moment of respite for a young bear cub rescued from the side of a busy New Jersey highway.Union Today

State police troopers in New Jersey rescued a bear cub that was discovered in a ditch along Interstate 78 in Union Township. The troopers from the Perryville station responded to the scene shortly before 1:40 p.m. on Wednesday and were able to safely secure the animal, which was later turned over to the state's Environmental Protection Department for care.

Why it matters

Wildlife encounters on major highways can pose serious risks to both animals and drivers. This rescue operation highlights the important role state troopers play in protecting public safety and animal welfare in New Jersey.

The details

The bear cub was found alone at milepost 12.2 on the eastbound side of I-78 in Union Township. It's unclear how the young animal ended up in the ditch or how long it had been there before being spotted. The troopers were able to safely secure the cub and transport it back to the state police barracks, where it was later turned over to the state's Environmental Protection Department for further care and evaluation.

  • The incident occurred shortly before 1:40 p.m. on Wednesday, April 3, 2026.

The players

New Jersey State Police

The state law enforcement agency that responded to the scene and rescued the bear cub from the highway ditch.

New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection

The state agency that took custody of the bear cub after the rescue and is providing care for the animal.

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What’s next

The Department of Environmental Protection will continue to monitor the bear cub's health and determine the best course of action for its long-term care and potential release back into the wild.

The takeaway

This rescue operation highlights the important role state troopers play in protecting both public safety and animal welfare on New Jersey's highways. The successful outcome also demonstrates the state's commitment to wildlife conservation and responsible management of human-animal interactions.