Full Notification

As the days warm up, residents are beginning to notice an increase in bear sightings. 

On July 13, 2023 Sierra Madre Police Officers were dispatched to the 200 block of Mariposa Avneue regarding a bear that had possibly entered into a home but was outside at the time of the call.  Officers were able to locate the bear in the 200 block of Hermosa Avenue, walking northbound in the direction of City Hall.

The bear climbed a tree and officers set up a perimeter around the bear and residents in that area were advised to remain indoors.  Officers used a pepperball shots, an effective, non-lethal tactic, to get the bear down from the tree and escorted back into the foothills. No injuries were reported, nor were there any damages to property.

SMPD and the City of Sierra Madre encourage residents to take steps to avoid interactions with bears; pick fruit from your trees to discourage wildlife from entering residential areas.  Please also store food properly to help prevent unwanted visits from wildlife. 

If a bear enters  your property, please call 9-1-1 and do not engage the animal, if possible.

If you feel your safety or that of your loved one is threatened, please contact SMPD by calling 9-1-1.