Florida man identified as missing hiker killed in bear attack in Glacier National Park

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A missing hiker who was found dead in Glacier National Park in Montana after a suspected bear attack has been identified. 

Anthony Pollio, 33, of Davie, Florida, went for a hike on Mt. Brown Trail on May 3 but failed to return, according to the National Park Service. 

Entry sign to Glacier National Park, Montana. East side, park visitor center in background. (Photo by: Marli Miller/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)

What we know:

Search and rescue operations for Pollio, a University of Central Florida graduate, began on May 4. Two days later, searchers discovered his personal belongings approximately 2.5 miles up the Mt. Brown Trail. His body was located that afternoon in a densely wooded area nearby.

What they're saying:

According to Park Service officials, Pollio had injuries that were consistent with a bear encounter. 

The last time a person was killed by a bear in the park was in 1998, according to the Park Service. 

Park officials said they are investigating what led to the bear encounter.

"Evidence suggests that this was a surprise encounter," the agency said.

The section of the trail where the incident happened is temporarily closed as authorities investigate. 

Hikers injured in bear attack at Yellowstone National Park

The backstory:

The deadly Glacier National Park encounter comes just days after two hikers were injured in a bear attack at Yellowstone National Park. 

Park officials said the attack happened on the Mystic Falls Trail near Old Faithful, but they didn't release details about the hikers' injuries or how many bears were involved. 

What you can do:

National Park Service advised hikers to be cautious of wildlife in nature: 

  • Avoid an encounter: The National Park Service advised to keep your distance and don't surprise bears. "Most bears will avoid humans if they hear them coming," the NPS said. 
  • Stay calm: The NPS said to talk to a bear in low, calm tones to show you're not a threat. A scream of sudden movement could trigger an attack, the agency said. 
  • Carry bear pepper spray: Bear pepper spray can be used defensively to stop an aggressive, charging or attacking bear. It's not a repellent, so authorities warn hikers not to spray the solution on their bodies. 

See the National Park Service's website for more safety tips about bear encounters. 

The Source: This story was written with information released by the National Park Service. 

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