Missouri man killed in suspected Arkansas bear attack
A 60‑year‑old Missouri man was found dead several hundred yards from his campsite near Mt. Judea, Arkansas (Sam's Throne Campground) after sending family photos of a bear two days earlier. Newton County sheriff's officials say the body showed 'extensive' injuries consistent with a large‑carnivore attack; the campground has been temporarily closed while authorities search for and attempt to locate and euthanize the bear for testing. Sheriff Glenn Wheeler said an autopsy by the Arkansas Crime Lab is pending to confirm the cause of death.
Public Safety
Environment
📌 Key Facts
- A 60‑year‑old Missouri man was found dead near his campsite at Sam's Throne, Mt. Judea, Arkansas; his son requested a welfare check after he failed to check in.
- Newton County Sheriff’s Department reported extensive injuries 'consistent with those expected from a large carnivore attack' and said an autopsy is pending.
- Sam's Throne Campground has been closed and authorities are searching for a young male bear seen in the photos the victim sent; Arkansas Game and Fish Commission to be involved in testing.