Massachusetts bear ordered euthanized after destroying livestock in southeastern Massachusetts killed by hunter

A bear that was ordered to be killed after destroying livestock in southeastern Massachusetts has died after being struck by a hunter.

According to NBC Boston and Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife, the bear, known as Pumpkin, was killed last week by bow and arrow legally by a hunter.

According to Hanson Police, earlier this month the bear once again got into a residence barn and killed a goat. Hanson Police along with Massachusetts Enviromental Police responded.

Since Pumpkin had gotten a taste for livestock, police stated that he had to be euthanized.

Officers spent over 2 hours tracking him but were unable to put him down. Being a residential area, the officers could not take a safe shot at the bear without the risk of endangering residents. This is the second time the bear has attacked livestock in this area.

The resident had an installed electric fence and reinforced the barn doors. The bear still got into the barn. Police stated that the bear is becoming too comfortable in the area and has found too many food sources.

Police issued a statement at the time knowing the decision would cause backlash from the public, which it has, particularly on social media.

“We know people will not be happy with this decision. We cannot just relocate a problem bear in this area. Residence should also be aware that there is more than one bear in the area. That being said, we cannot and will not take out a bear just because it is in your yard, however, if the bear is showing no fear of humans or is attempting to enter an area with livestock, please notify police immediately. This is not just a Hanson issue. Black bears can travel up to 15 miles in a day. Surrounding Police Departments and the Enviromental Police have been notified about this particular bear.

“We are disappointed that the situation has led to this decision. We again, ask that you take some time to learn about living with bears as they have now taken up residence in our area. We do not want this to become a recurring problem each year.”