Reward offered for information about bear killed in Taylor County

Reward offered for information about bear killed in Taylor County

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is asking for the public’s help in determining who killed a Florida black bear near Shady Grove in Taylor County.

A report came in to FWC Sunday about a dead bear, and Officer Andy Bickel responded. The sub-adult female black bear weighed approximately 70 pounds. The animal had been shot with a firearm and was found on a single-lane bridge on Donaldson Bridge Road.

Black bear hunting in Florida was discontinued in 1994. The Florida black bear is a threatened species in this state.

"It is illegal to hunt bears in the state. It is a third-degree felony, punishable by a fine of up to $5,000 and/or up to five years in jail," Bickel said.

Investigators are interested in any information the public may have in the case.

"The investigation into who perpetrated this crime is continuing, and a reward is being offered if the information leads to an arrest," said Bickel.

"Anyone with information can call the toll-free Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-3922 to report the crime," Bickel said. "Callers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000 if the information leads to an arrest."

Anyone with information can also report the crime online at MyFWC.com/law/alert/ or call Lt. Bruce Cooper at 850-672-0376.