Bear sighting at Bloomfield Park surprises residents, prompts police warning
Some residents told News 12 they noticed the park seemed quieter than usual before learning about the bear sighting. Others said they were concerned after finding out the animal had been seen in an area where bears are not commonly spotted.
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Police in Bloomfield are warning residents to use caution after a bear was spotted Sunday morning at Watsessing Park.
The sighting prompted an alert from authorities, who advised residents not to approach or feed the animal.
The unusual visitor caught many parkgoers by surprise.
Some residents told News 12 they noticed the park seemed quieter than usual before learning about the bear sighting. Others said they were concerned after finding out the animal had been seen in an area where bears are not commonly spotted.
“I found out about it just this morning after I took out my dog,” said Bloomfield resident Juniper. “That made me a little bit anxious, knowing that I just had my dog out.”
Others were unaware of the sighting until arriving at the park.
“Now I’m kind of scared. I don’t know if I’m going to make any shots here,” joked resident Elian Acosta while playing basketball nearby.
Several residents said they were surprised to hear a bear had been seen in Bloomfield, noting that bear sightings are more commonly associated with northern and western parts of New Jersey.
Officials continue to monitor the situation and remind residents to keep their distance if they encounter the bear and to report sightings to local authorities.
