Black Bear Euthanized After Attacking Man in Upstate New York

The black bear that attacked a 63-year-old man earlier this month in Upstate New York has been euthanized.

Earlier this month, we told you about an Upstate New York man who walked into his house on a Saturday night and walked into a black bear that had found its way into the house.

Black Bear Attacks Man Inside Home in Cario, NY

The rare encounter happened on Saturday night, August 30th, 2025, when a 63-year-old man walked into an entry room of his house in Greene County, NY, at approximately 8 p.m. and was greeted by a black bear. Following the encounter, the victim rushed to a neighbor's house, where they called the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC).

SEE ALSO: Man Hospitalized After Black Bear Attack in Upstate New York

When NYDEC officers arrived on the scene, the bear was gone, and the victim told officers that the bear was inside his home in an entry room where he stores food and garbage and that he was either “bit or scratched” when the bear attempted to leave the house. The unidentified man was taken to a nearby hospital to receive treatment for several deep cuts on his neck and arms and was released the next day.

What Happened to the Black Bear?

According to the DEC, in response to the attack, and in accordance with DEC protocols, the bear was captured in a trap and euthanized. According to DEC, euthanasia is the last resort in a case like this or if an animal is either suffering or presents a threat to public health or safety.

In cases involving black bears, DEC officers follow the NYS Black Bear Response manual, which states, “if an investigation suggests that the bear could be expected to hurt someone else without provocation and if the bear can be captured and identified, then the bear should be euthanized," according to WTEN.

The DEC reminded folks that if you spot a bear and it presents an immediate risk to public safety or if it's damaging property and won't leave the area, call 911.