In the battle between environmentalism and public safety, it seems that some folks don't care about human life.

The Department of Fish and Wildlife has set up traps for a bear that attacked a bicyclist on Sunday, and officials say the bear will likely be killed.

But people who live near Banner Forest Heritage Park say the animal did nothing wrong.

Anthony Blasioli, 51, was biking with his two dogs alongside him when he encountered the bear Sunday morning.

The bear charged at the man, cutting his arms, back and neck before he managed to get away. He's being treated at a Tacoma hospital and was listed in satisfactory condition.

Officials think the bear may have been defending its cubs, and that is what has area residents protesting plans to kill the animal.

"It's mean, it's cruel, it's bad," said Mike Leathers. "We're in their territory. The bear and her cubs need to be relocated."

Fish and Wildlife Sgt. Duane Makoviney it's very rare for a bear to attack a human, and they have no choice but to euthanize it.

"It could have been worse. We could have a fatality here and we certainly don't want that to happen," he said.

The bear attacked a person.

Put it down.

The safety of people trumps warm fuzzy gfeelings about a vicious animal.

Posted by: Greg at 10:03 PM | Comments (1) | Add Comment
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