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Glacier National Park Hiker Killed in Suspected Bear Encounter

Officials say evidence points to a surprise encounter, prompting a temporary trail closure.

Overview

  • Investigators said Saturday the hiker’s injuries were consistent with a bear attack and that evidence points to a surprise encounter.
  • Search teams found Anthony Pollio, 33, on Wednesday about 50 feet off the Mount Brown Trail after family reported him missing a day earlier.
  • Rangers closed the affected section of the Mount Brown Trail as they conduct field assessments and monitor bear activity to guide next steps.
  • Pollio’s father said he received a final voicemail saying “I love you,” and family reports suggest bear spray was among his belongings, though the investigation is ongoing.
  • The death is Glacier’s first fatal bear attack since 1998, and Yellowstone reported two hikers injured in a separate bear encounter the same week.