Camper took photos of black bear before fatal attack | The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentIndependentSwipe for next articleIndependent Bulletin homepageDownload ourSocial PartnerWe are 8 logo (opens in a new tab)AllNewsSportCultureLifestyleMike TaylorTuesday 07 October 2025 13:05 BSTMan survives bear attack with 41 stitchesArkansas officials have shot and killed a male black bear believed to be responsible for the fatal mauling of 60-year-old Max Thomas at his campsite in the Ozark National Forest.Mr Thomas, from Springfield, Missouri, was discovered deceased last Thursday, with evidence of a struggle and drag marks found at the scene.He had sent his family pictures of a black bear in his camp on Tuesday morning, and a bear matching its description was later tracked and killed near the attack site.DNA samples are being taken to confirm the identity of the bear, which matched the size and facial colourations of the one photographed by the victim.This incident marks the second fatal bear attack in Arkansas in recent weeks, despite such occurrences being historically "exceedingly rare" in the state.In fullBlack bear who fatally mauled camper hunted down and shot deadThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in