NEWTON COUNTY, Ark. (KTVI) – A bear killed by wildlife officials in Arkansas earlier this month, initially believed to have killed a Missouri man, is not the same bear responsible for the deadly attack, officials say.
On Oct. 2, the body of Max Thomas, of Springfield, Missouri, was discovered Thursday near Sam’s Throne campground of the Ozark National Forest in northwest Arkansas, according to the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.
“A bear was euthanized by AGFC biologists three days after the incident, as size, physical characteristics and photographic evidence initially pointed to a high probability that it was the attacking animal,” said AGFC via a news release Thursday.
However, DNA testing found the black bear killed by wildlife officials “does not match the DNA of the bear responsible” in Thomas’ death, according to AGFC.
“While we are disappointed that the initial search did not neutralize the threat, our commitment to public safety remains paramount,” said AGFC Director Doug Schoenrock via the news release. “We acted decisively based on the best evidence available at the time, and now that we have definitive forensic data, we are adjusting our strategy. Our teams will continue to work tirelessly to find the bear.”
Schoenrock says wildlife officials will continue to be vigilant in efforts to find the bear responsible for the attack. Sam Thorne’s Campground and surrounding public areas remain closed to ensure public safety while search efforts continue.
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