DNR Ends Trapping Efforts for Bear in Barron County Attack

COMSTOCK, Wis (WLAK / WBZH / WSCM / WCFW) – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has ended their efforts to trap the black bear that attacked a Barron County woman this month.

The incident occurred earlier this month in the town of Comstock when 69-year-old Karen Frye was attacked in her backyard on July 12. She managed to escape and call for help before being taken to an area hospital for treatment. According to a press release from the DNR, she is recovering well and in stable condition.

DNR wardens, the Barron County Sheriff’s Office, and U.S. Department of Agriculture Wildlife Services staff began searching for the bear immediately after the attack. They said the attack was unusual and planned to euthanize the bear to assess its condition. After about two weeks of searching, they have not been able to locate it.

In addition to constant surveillance of the property where the attack occurred, the DNR placed a number of bear traps in the area. The traps captured six bears in total, but none of the bears were the one responsible for the attack. Officials say they will discontinue their trapping efforts but continue to monitor the area.

The Department of Natural Resources is also reminding residents to be on the lookout for black bears during the summer. The bears are expanding their territories around this time of year in search of a mate, meaning they could also be looking for food in unusual places.

Residents can take a number of precautions to keep bears from exploring their properties. Keeping pet food inside, taking down bird feeders, and thoroughly cleaning outdoor grills could prevent the bears from being attracted to their properties in search of food.