WARNING: Some readers may find video linked below disturbing
HARRISON, NY (June 3, 2025) — A black bear was spotted in Harrison on Monday, prompting a response from the Harrison Police Department and the New York State Environmental Conservation Police.
At approximately 2:45 p.m., officers responded to the intersection of Columbus Avenue and Madison Street in West Harrison after a report of the bear sighting. The bear was initially seen on Sherman Avenue but retreated into a wooded area, out of sight. Notifications were sent to the community, the New York State Environmental Conservation Police, and Preston School.
In a separate incident later that day, the bear entered a densely populated area, moving between backyards on Columbus Avenue. These homes are mostly smaller-sized, two-family lots with retaining walls in their backyards. Officers from both agencies monitored the bear to ensure public safety, at times attempting to contain it or push it back toward the woods.
The New York State Environmental Conservation Police were unable to provide assistance such as tranquilizing or trapping the bear to relocate it. Similarly, the Harrison Police Department lacked the resources, including tranquilization or trapping support, from Westchester County or private sources to handle the situation. After further consideration and with public safety in mind, the decision was made to euthanize the bear due to the challenges of managing it in a densely populated area. The bear, which had remained in a backyard on Columbus Avenue, was euthanized and later removed by the Town’s contracted animal removal service.
Moving forward, the Harrison Police Department plans to explore the possibility of having officers cross-trained in animal tranquilization and trapping. The department will also coordinate with the New York State Environmental Conservation Police to improve future responses.
This article was drafted with the aid of Grok, an AI tool by xAI, under the direction and editing of Robert Cox to ensure accuracy and adherence to journalistic standards.
