Robert Markel Obituary, Death: Victim named in fatal Florida bear attack; 2 bears removed.
Robert Markel Obituary, Death – A tragic bear attack in Collier County, Florida, has resulted in the deaths of both a man and a dog. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) confirmed the deaths and has launched an investigation into the incident, which occurred in a wooded area off State Road 29, near Copeland, just north of Everglades City.
According to FWC officials, the attack took place on Monday morning, and the Collier County Sheriff’s Office received a report at 7:07 a.m. about the discovery of a man’s body in the area near the 22000 block of State Road 29. The victim was later identified as 89-year-old Robert Markel, a long-time resident of the Jerome area. Markel’s daughter, who was the first to discover the scene, had reportedly witnessed the bear attack her dog before finding her father’s body nearby. She immediately called 911 to report the gruesome discovery.
In response to the incident, FWC officials confirmed that two bears were removed from the area on Monday night as part of the ongoing investigation. Four live bear traps were also set up in the area as wildlife officers continue to search for the animal or animals responsible for the attack. FWC has not yet determined whether the same bear was involved in both fatalities or if multiple bears were responsible. Authorities are working to gather more information and piece together the details surrounding the deaths.
The bear attack is believed to be the first fatal wildlife attack involving a bear in Florida’s history, according to FWC officials. While bear attacks on humans are rare, this incident highlights the potential dangers posed by wildlife in certain areas. Residents and visitors in the vicinity have been urged to stay vigilant and avoid the area, with officials emphasizing the importance of not approaching or attempting to track any wildlife. Law enforcement and FWC personnel are continuing to search for the bear involved in the attack, ensuring that public safety remains a priority.
The incident has left the community in shock, as attacks of this nature are extremely rare in the state. Although bear sightings are common in the region, fatalities caused by bear encounters are unprecedented. FWC has stressed that this should serve as a reminder for the public to exercise caution when in areas known to be inhabited by wildlife, particularly bears, which are becoming more prevalent in certain parts of Florida.
The tragic events serve as a grim reminder of a previous bear-related incident in Collier County. In 2018, a man was severely injured in an encounter with a bear, requiring 41 stitches. While that attack did not result in a fatality, it highlighted the potential risks associated with wildlife in the area, especially as the bear population continues to grow in parts of Florida.
In the wake of this latest attack, FWC has pledged to continue its investigation and ensure that all appropriate steps are taken to protect the public. The agency is also monitoring the bear population in the area and is taking steps to minimize the risk of future encounters. The deployment of live traps and the removal of bears from the area are part of ongoing efforts to locate the animal responsible for the attack and ensure that no further incidents occur.
As of now, the circumstances surrounding the attack remain under investigation, and further updates are expected as more information becomes available. FWC has confirmed that it will continue to work closely with law enforcement officials to ensure the safety of the community and to resolve the situation as quickly as possible. In the meantime, officials have advised the public to avoid the area and to take necessary precautions when venturing into wooded areas where wildlife may be present.
This tragic event has left the family and community in mourning, and many are now reflecting on the risks posed by wildlife in the region. While bear attacks are rare, this incident has brought to light the need for increased awareness and caution in areas where wildlife is prevalent. As the investigation continues, FWC officials are working to determine exactly what led to the attack and whether any changes in wildlife management or public safety protocols may be necessary.
At this time, the bear involved in the attack has not been located, but authorities are committed to resolving the situation and ensuring that public safety is maintained. The community remains on edge as they await further information, and many are hoping that no other families will have to endure the heartbreak caused by such a tragic event.
