Pet Bear Escapes During Walk With Owner
AP March 6, 2003
GOLCONDA, Ill. -- Jerry Mullenix is missing his big fuzzy buddy.
He took his pet bear for a walk, but it didn't come back when he called. Now, authorities in Pope County, Ill., are looking for a 500-pound black bear.
Officials say Mullenix had a permit for the beast. But the local sheriff says he doesn't think that license allows you to take an animal that big out for a stroll.
While black bears are native to Illinois, they no longer live in the wild. The bear won't be hard to miss, it's 7-feet-tall when standing on its hind legs.
Authorities are warning area residents to cover their garbage cans and leash their dogs. They say to call 911 if anyone spots the furry fugitive