On May 6, search and rescue crews found the body of a missing hiker in Montana’s Glacier National Park, discovering that the body had injuries consistent with what would be sustained in a bear encounter.

Local news reports that the body was that of Florida man Anthony Pollio, 33 and of Fort Lauderdale, who was considered missing and sent a last known message at 8:20 p.m. on Sunday, May 3.

A press release was issued about Pollio being missing on May 6, with his body reportedly found later that day about 2.5 miles up the Mt. Brown Trail and in a densely wooded area with downed timber located about 50 feet off of the trail.

Multiple trails have been closed until further notice as wildlife and law enforcement personnel assess the area for bear activity and ongoing public safety concerns.

Both black bears and grizzly bears are present in Glacier National Park, with officials making no indication thus far regarding which species may have been involved.

Per Glacier National Park, the last human-caused bear fatality to occur in the park was in 1998 in Two Medicine Valley. Meanwhile, the last time a bear injured a person was in August of 2025.

Condolences go out to those impacted by this man’s death.

While Colorado isn’t home to grizzly bears – which tend to be more aggressive toward humans, the state is home to black bears. Black bears can still be aggressive toward humans and precautions to prevent human-bear interactions should be taken. Avoid leaving out food at the campsite or having accessible trash around the home. If you happen to come across a black bear, it’s generally possible to haze it away with loud noises. That being said, creating distance is always recommended. Bear spray can be an effective tool, too, but make sure the can is placed in a spot that’s easy to access. In the event of a charging bear, deployment in a matter of seconds is often key.

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