DNA test on Newton County black bear complete

LITTLE ROCK — The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission today announced that final DNA analysis from the Veterinary Forensic Science Laboratory at the University of Florida has confirmed that the DNA collected from the black bear killed in Newton County on Oct. 4 does not match the DNA of the bear responsible for the death of 60-year-old Max Thomas of Springfield, Missouri.

Thomas was found Oct. 2 in Sam’s Throne Campground of the Ozark National Forest. His body was discovered by a Newton County sheriff’s deputy during a welfare check at Thomas’ campsite requested by the man’s family. A bear was euthanized by AGFC biologists three days after the incident, as size, physical characteristics and photographic evidence initially pointed to a high probability that it was the attacking animal.

The AGFC has had traps and game cameras in the area since shortly after the attack occurred. Only one bear has been seen on the game cameras and no bears have been caught in any of the traps deployed in the area.

Key Findings:

• No Match: DNA samples collected from the victim of the fatal mauling at Sam’s Throne Campground in Ozark National Forest do not match the DNA profile of the male black bear killed in the immediate area.

• Concerns: Because the bear responsible for the attack is still at large, the AGFC is continuing efforts to locate and safely remove the animal from the vicinity.

• Safety Measures Remain: Sam’s Throne Campground and surrounding public areas remain closed to ensure public safety while the search and monitoring operations continue.

AGFC Director Doug Schoenrock says the agency will continue to be vigilant in its efforts to find the bear responsible for the attack.

“While we are disappointed that the initial search did not neutralize the threat, our commitment to public safety remains paramount,” AGFC Director Doug Schoenrock said. “We acted decisively based on the best evidence available at the time, and now that we have definitive forensic data, we are adjusting our strategy. Our teams will continue to work tirelessly to find the bear.”

The AGFC continues to urge all citizens and visitors in the Ozark National Forest area to remain bear aware:

• Store all food, garbage and scented items in bear-resistant containers or secured inside a hard-sided vehicle. Never leave food unattended.

• Immediately report any aggressive or unafraid bear behavior to the AGFC radio room at 833-356-0824.

• Please respect the current closures of Sam’s Throne Campground and adjacent trails until further notice.

Additional information to help prevent bear conflicts is available at www.Bearwise.org.

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