Two recent bear attacks on dogs prompted police to issue a warning in Sussex County.
Bear sightings are hardly a surprise in Sparta but in one case, police say a bear killed a dog. On May 9, authorities say a bear attacked a resident’s dog on Graphic Boulevard. A second incident happened on Monday on Mountain Spring Drive.
According to police, one of the attacks resulted in the death of the resident's dog and the second incident resulted in injuries to the resident's dog.
The Sparta Township Police Department and officials from NJ Fish and Wildlife are currently investigating the incidents and say they are taking appropriate measures to ensure public safety.
Police are reminding residents to secure their garbage and food which may attract wildlife.
Anyone witnessing an aggressive bear or encountering aggressive wildlife is urged to contact the Sparta Township Police Department at 973-729-6121 to report the incident.