California Records First Fatal Black Bear Attack
A 71-year-old woman in Downieville, California, was killed by a black bear in November 2023, marking the first fatal black bear attack in the state's history. Authorities discovered Patrice Miller's body after a welfare check and determined the bear had been in her home for several days. The bear, which was later euthanized, had been a frequent nuisance on Miller's property. The incident has prompted local officials to advise residents to secure their homes and remove outdoor food sources to prevent further bear encounters.
