NAPLES, FL – A possible bear attack in Collier County, Florida, has left one person dead. FWC and the Collier County Sheriff’s Office are looking into the matter. The incident occurred near a highway in Jerome, east of Marco Island.
Deputies responded to a call shortly after 7 a.m. on May 5 and arrived about an hour later. Arielle Callender from FWC said they found one deceased person. The scene is now an active crime scene.
If confirmed, this would be Florida’s second bear-related fatality in 2025. The species of bear involved is not yet identified. Florida is home to black bears, and most previous incidents involved them. 
Since November 2020, Florida has seen at least 15 bear attacks. Most of these involved dogs. The last fatality without a dog present was in March 2020. It is unclear if someone involved a dog in the May 5 incident.
Nature photographer James Paul Mayo noted recent bear activity in the area. He saw a mother black bear with three cubs in the Verona Walk community on January 31, 2025. He captured photos of them walking down the street in the neighborhood.
The last recorded bear attack in Collier County happened on January 9, 2018. A black bear attacked a man in his North Naples backyard while he was walking his dog. The bear struck him in the face, causing lasting injuries.
Bear attacks are rare, with only 40 reported globally each year. The U.S. experiences fewer than one death each year from such attacks. Yet, wildlife encounters are increasing in Florida due to expanding human development.
Florida wildlife officials are considering allowing a regulated bear hunt. This comes as more bears are being spotted and interacting with people. A proposal for limited bear hunting in Lee, Collier, and Hendry counties will be ready for public review by May 7. The goal is to harvest 55 bears.
