© Frank Becerra Jr./The Journal News / USA TODAY NETWORK
(Sparta, New Jersey) – Neighbors in Sussex County, New Jersey received a warning issued by police to keep their furry friends inside. The warning comes after two recent bear attacks in Sparta left one dog dead and one dog injured. The fatal attack happened on Graphic Boulevard. The Sparta Police Department and NJ Fish and Wildlife are investigating the incidents to ensure public safety.
The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection says bear sightings have been up 69.5% compared to last year, while interactions with them are down just over 1%. The NPS (National Park Service) says if you see a bear approaching you, try scaring it away by yelling aggressively and as loudly as possible, don’t run away. The bear still hasn’t been found.
