Bear Involved in Monrovia Incident with Woman Has Been Euthanized
Bear Euthanized Following Attack in Monrovia
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) has confirmed the euthanasia of a black bear involved in an attack on a woman walking her dog in Monrovia over the weekend. This decision was made in the interest of public safety after officials deemed the bear a continuing threat.
According to CDFW spokesperson Cort Klopping, DNA tests linked the bear to a previous incident in June 2025, when she clawed an elderly man on his porch. This marks the bear’s second documented attack in the same area.
“It’s not something that we want to do, but public safety is first and foremost of importance to us,” Klopping stated.
The bear, known to local residents as “Blondie,” was tranquilized and captured on Sunday. Wildlife officials noted that this bear had previously interacted aggressively with humans, raising concerns about a pattern of behavior rather than isolated incidents.
Monrovia residents were familiar with “Blondie” and her two cubs, often spotting them in the neighborhood. For several weeks, they had taken shelter under a home on Oakglade Drive.
Ashley Howie, a local resident, expressed her frustration with the CDFW’s decision. “I totally understand this bear could be deemed as aggressive, I totally understand that,” Howie said. “But I do wish a relocation elsewhere, even if it’s farther out, could have been a better option for her.”
Following the euthanasia, the cubs were rescued and placed in a wildlife rehabilitation facility approved by CDFW. Officials assured that the cubs would have minimal human interaction and will be released back into their natural habitat when they are old enough.
