Tragic Encounter: 89-Year-Old Florida Man and His Dog Killed by Black Bear in Historic Attack

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission confirmed on Friday that an 89-year-old man and his dog were brutally killed by a black bear in Jerome, marking the first fatal black bear attack recorded in the state’s history.

Family members reported Robert Markel missing from his residence, citing “signs of recent disturbances” that may have been caused by one or more bears within the vicinity of his home.

On Monday, the Collier County Sheriff’s Office alerted FWC personnel about a possible fatal wildlife encounter. FWC law enforcement and bear management teams promptly responded to secure the area.

Authorities discovered Markel’s remains approximately 100 yards from his home, where evidence suggested a physical confrontation had occurred between a bear and a human near the property, according to a news release issued by FWC.

The investigation revealed that a dog had also been killed by a bear nearby. Furthermore, officials noted signs indicating that a bear had entered Markel’s home.

While the precise sequence of events is still being determined, the FWC adheres to its Human-Bear Conflict Response Policies and Guidelines when responding to dangerous wildlife situations.

From Monday night to early Tuesday morning, FWC personnel euthanized three adult male bears, weighing 207, 263, and 434 pounds respectively. An attempt to trap a fourth bear was unsuccessful, but authorities collected DNA evidence from the scene.

The carcasses of the three bears were dispatched to laboratories in Gainesville for necropsy and testing, including DNA samples gathered from the incident location.

The FWC indicated that the Collier County Medical Examiner is actively conducting the investigation, though preliminary results suggested that Markel’s cause of death was consistent with injuries inflicted by a black bear.

Results from the necropsies showed that one of the bears, weighing 263 pounds, contained partial remains of the victim. DNA tests confirmed the presence of this bear’s DNA on Markel, within his home, and on the body of his dog.

The only bear DNA found at the scene corresponded to the three bears that were euthanized by authorities. Testing for rabies on all three bears returned negative results, confirming their health status.

FWC law enforcement and bear management officials maintained communication with Markel’s family throughout the incident. They kept a presence near the property until Friday, where only one additional bear was spotted.

As a precaution, law enforcement and bear management staff will continue their monitoring activities over the weekend.

FWC Chairman Rodney Barreto expressed gratitude to the family for their cooperation during this challenging time. He emphasized pride in the staff’s professional response, acknowledging the unimaginable nature of this tragedy.

Located in the South Bear Management Unit, Jerome houses the third-largest black bear population in Florida, estimated at 1,044 in 2015. Between May 5, 2024, and May 4, 2025, FWC received 16 bear-related calls within a 10-mile radius of nearby Copeland, which led to five site visits, capture efforts, and the humane relocation or euthanization of several bears.

While injuries inflicted by wild black bears are infrequent in Florida, instances of bite or scratch incidents do occur, particularly when cubs, food sources, or dogs are involved.

Annually, FWC fields an average of 6,300 bear-related calls and has documented 42 incidents involving physical contact with humans since the 1970s when comprehensive record-keeping began. Of these incidents, three previously resulted in serious injuries necessitating medical attention prior to this latest tragedy.

This devastating event underscores the importance of public safety in areas with wildlife encounters. As local agencies work through their investigations and protocols, the community is reminded to remain alert and informed about local wildlife behavior as well as safety measures to minimize conflicts.

Understanding Bear Behavior in Human Environments

It is essential for residents in bear-populated areas to understand the natural behavior of black bears. They are typically peaceful creatures but can become aggressive if they feel threatened, especially when protecting cubs or food sources.

To minimize interactions and potential conflicts, communities should implement strategies that deter bears from approaching homes. Secure trash cans, remove outdoor food sources, and educate the public about the significance of keeping their distance from wild animals.

Authorities continually emphasize the significance of coexistence with wildlife while also ensuring the safety of residents. Implementing protective measures can greatly reduce the likelihood of tragic encounters like the one involving Markel and his dog.

Community Response and Future Precautions

In the wake of this tragic incident, community leaders are evaluating additional measures to enhance public safety. Increased signage in bear-populated areas, educational campaigns, and emergency response planning are a few necessary steps being considered.

Engaging the public in discussions around wildlife safety can foster a sense of responsibility towards both community members and the environment. It becomes paramount to raise awareness about the potential dangers posed by wildlife and how to appropriately react in dangerous situations.

This incident serves as a somber reminder of the wild nature that exists in close proximity to human life, and how critical it is to foster an understanding between communities and the native wildlife that shares their habitat.