Florida Wildlife Officials Investigate State’s First Fatal Bear Attack: Community in Shock After Death of Robert Markel, 89, and His Dog
Naples, FL — In an unprecedented and tragic event, Florida wildlife officials are investigating the state’s first fatal black bear attack on a human after 89-year-old Robert Markel and his dog were killed Monday near the Big Cypress Wildlife Management Area in Collier County. The shocking incident has alarmed residents in the normally peaceful area just south of State Road 29 and triggered swift action from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).
A Rare and Fatal Encounter
According to authorities, Markel was attacked while walking with his dog in the early hours of Monday. Investigators believe the dog was killed first, followed shortly by the fatal mauling of Markel. The FWC says evidence suggests more than one bear may have been involved in the deadly incident. Tracks and other physical indicators were found at the scene, prompting officials to set up perimeter control, motion-activated cameras, and traps in the area.
Later that night, three black bears were euthanized by wildlife officers. The FWC stated that these bears were found within close proximity of the attack site, and DNA samples have been collected and sent to a lab in Gainesville to determine whether any of the three animals were directly involved in the deaths.
Victim Remembered: Robert Markel
Robert Markel was a long-time resident of a tight-knit community in Collier County. Known for his kind demeanor and love for nature, Markel’s sudden and violent death has left neighbors and friends in disbelief. “Robert was the kind of person who’d stop to chat with anyone. He loved his daily walks and was deeply attached to his dog,” said a neighbor who lives near the incident site.
This tragic event marks the first confirmed fatal bear attack on a human in the history of the state of Florida, underscoring how rare such encounters are. The FWC and local authorities are continuing their investigation to determine what may have triggered the bears’ aggression.
FWC Responds Swiftly and Cautiously
Mike Orlando, bear management program coordinator with the FWC, addressed the media on Tuesday, emphasizing the agency’s commitment to public safety.
“Our agency takes this very seriously. Public safety is paramount and our priority,” Orlando said. “Not only was a man killed, but so was his dog, and there were signs of aggressive bear behavior in the presence of people. That raises every red flag we have.”
He acknowledged that while bear-dog interactions are not uncommon in Florida, fatal attacks on humans are exceedingly rare — not just in the state, but across the United States. “This is tragic and rare. We’re trying to determine what made these bears act so aggressively, but there’s a lot we still don’t know.”
Growing Black Bear Population and Rising Conflicts
Florida’s black bear population has rebounded significantly over the past several decades. Once listed as a threatened species, black bears now number over 4,000 across the state. With this rebound, interactions between bears and humans have become more frequent, especially in rural areas and near wildlife preserves.
In response, the FWC has enhanced its bear awareness outreach, providing tools like the interactive bear sighting map and educational materials on how to safely coexist with wildlife.
What to Do If You Encounter a Bear
In the wake of this tragedy, Orlando reiterated vital bear safety tips for Floridians:
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Do not run or play dead. Stand your ground and make yourself appear large.
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Speak calmly to the bear while slowly backing away if it’s not approaching.
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Keep small children and pets close or pick them up immediately.
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If a bear makes contact, fight back. Use sticks, rocks, or any available items.
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Never feed bears, either intentionally or unintentionally (such as through unsecured garbage or pet food).
Investigation Ongoing and Community on Edge
While authorities await DNA test results to confirm if the euthanized bears were indeed involved, residents in Collier County have been urged to remain vigilant and report any bear sightings immediately. Patrols in the area have been increased, and additional traps have been set as a precaution.
The FWC emphasized that decisions to euthanize bears are never taken lightly and only occur when public safety is clearly at risk.
As Florida mourns the tragic and historic loss of Robert Markel and his companion, officials stress the need for continued education, prevention, and safety in areas where bear populations are thriving.
For more information about bear safety or to report bear sightings, residents can visit the FWC Bear Management Program website or call the local wildlife hotline.