Overview
- Security video from the Crestline Village Water District in the San Bernardino Mountains shows a small black bear push open the front door, sniff around the office and then push the door open again to leave on its own with no injuries or obvious damage.
- A Crestline employee, Josselyn Brian, told local reporters the encounter was “exciting” and that no staff or customers were in danger during the brief visit.
- Earlier this week, the U.S. Department of the Interior shared video, verified by Storyful, of a separate bear that climbed a utility pole in rural New Mexico and later died from electrocution before officials could safely reach it.
- Wildlife experts and local reporting note that black bears are strong climbers that will scale trees, poles or structures when startled or seeking food, which can make rescue attempts dangerous and limit officials’ options.
- Surveillance and agency videos are increasing public attention to these incidents and could spur calls for better food‑security measures in mountain communities and steps to reduce wildlife contact with electrical infrastructure.