New Jersey

Bear in Fatal New Jersey Attack Was Acting β€˜Predatory'

Authorities say the first known fatal bear attack in New Jersey was unprovoked and the bear was acting in a "predatory" manner.

Officials attribute the death of a 22-year-old Rutgers University student from Edison to "mauling."

Darsh Patel was hiking with four friends in the Apshawa Preserve last month when they noticed the bear following them.

The group scattered, and Patel's friends, who were not injured, called police when they realized he was missing.

Officials said Patel had bite and claw marks on his body that indicated he'd been attacked by the bear.

The bear was found 30 to 40 yards from Patel and euthanized at the scene, officials said.

The Record newspaper reports West Milford police and the Environmental Protection Department issued a statement saying the bear did not seem interested in food.

Officials said the bear exhibited "stalking type behavior."

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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