Black bear chased from residential area, close to Park Ave. school

Warwick - On Monday morning, May 21, a large black bear, estimated weighing 500 pounds, raided the garbage bins behind the Park Lane Apartments in the Village of Warwick. Warwick Police were soon on the scene and they, in turn, notified the Department of Environmental Conservation. The New York State Police also responded. “There are lots of bears in the Warwick area,” said Police Chief Thomas Mc Govern, “but we were particularly concerned this time because the bear was in a residential area within the Village and close to Park Avenue School.” After standing watch for over three hours, the now sleeping bear hadn’t displayed any aggressive moves but seemed determined to remain in the residential area, Officer Jason Marsh then fired a load of rubber buck shot. The pellets, which are only designed to sting, had the desired effect and the bear took off. However, after crossing Forester Ave. with police and a TV crew following closely behind, the animal decided to climb a tree at the edge of the Mechanical Rubber parking lot. The police then closed Forester Ave. to traffic and eventually ordered everyone to pull back in order to give the bear some breathing room and an opportunity to come down and leave the area. Shortly afterwards, the bear seized that opportunity, climbed down and headed towards Veterans Memorial Park, briefly visiting Creekside Apartments on the way. Officer Marsh encouraged its departure with two more shots and the bear eventually disappeared into the swamps near the park. The New York State Department of Conversation’s Website, www.dec.ny.gov, offers a comprehensive list of suggestions on what usually attracts bears including bird seed, garbage left outside secure bins, pet food and greasy barbecue grills. The organization cautions residents that no matter how docile, a bear is a wild animal and should be respected.