New Castle County

DNREC To Examine “Delabear” After Route 1 Accident

- by Staff Writer

Late Tuesday evening, June 25, a black bear that had been sighted in the Newark area was struck by a vehicle and killed. The Delaware Natural Resources Police (DNRP), part of the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC), reported that the incident occurred around 11 p.m. on Route 1 near School Bell Road in New Castle.

Delaware State Police responded to the collision, and the Delaware Department of Transportation promptly removed the bear from the roadway. DNREC wildlife biologists are set to examine the bear to determine its origin, age, sex, and other pertinent information that may assist in tracking other transient black bears that venture into Delaware from neighboring states with resident black bear populations.

Joe Rogerson, a DNREC wildlife biologist, expressed the community’s interest in the bear, stating, “It’s always unfortunate when wildlife is lost in such a manner. Our team will be examining the bear to gather information.”

In recent days, DNREC wildlife biologists and DNRP officers had been actively coordinating with local authorities in the Newark area regarding reports of black bear sightings. Affectionately dubbed “Delabear” on social media, these bears have captured significant attention and concern from the community. The expansion of black bear populations in neighboring states such as Maryland, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania has led to occasional sightings in Delaware.

The DNRP has officers trained to handle situations involving transient black bears from surrounding states. For public safety, the DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife advises residents to adhere to the following precautions if a bear is reported in the area:

  • Do not approach, touch, feed, or shoot at the bear. Back away slowly to give the bear space. Go inside and wait for the bear to leave. Once inside, contact the DNRP at 800-523-3336 to report the sighting.
  • Eliminate potential food sources by cleaning or removing anything outdoors that may smell like food.
  • Keep pet food indoors, especially for dogs and cats.