NewsTelemundo 51 Miami – MainJuly 3, 2026Miami-Dade
400-Pound Black Bear Killed in Traffic Accident in Martin County
A 400-pound black bear was struck and killed by a vehicle on Southwest Martin Highway in Martin County, Florida. Wildlife officials are investigating the incident and conducting studies on the animal to understand its origin and behavior.
Read the full story at Telemundo 51 Miami – MainWhy It Matters
The incident highlights local wildlife activity and prompts authorities to advise drivers to exercise caution, particularly during dawn and dusk, to avoid collisions with animals.
Key Facts
- A 400-pound black bear was killed after being struck by a vehicle on Southwest Martin Highway.
- The driver involved in the collision was not injured and was not speeding.
- The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) recovered the bear's body for scientific study.
- The bear's body was transported to Collier County for further analysis regarding its age and origin.
- FWC officials suggest the bear may have been in a 'dispersal' phase, where young bears travel 50 to 100 miles to find new territory.
- Authorities advise drivers to reduce speed and remain alert at dawn and dusk to prevent wildlife collisions.
Who's Mentioned
personMichael Orlando“Director of the FWC Bear Management Program.”personRubén Romero“Major at the Martin County Sheriff's Office.”locationSouthwest Martin Highway“Specific road where the collision took place.”locationMartin County“Location where the incident occurred.”locationCollier County“Location where the bear's body was taken for analysis.”organizationFlorida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission“Agency responsible for wildlife management and investigation.”