WEST HARTFORD - After recent bear sightings, the West Hartford officials are issuing a warning.
The bear sighting started a few days ago, according to West Hartford Police Lt. Eric Rocheleau.
He said there is one bear in the area that was first spotted in the area of Hall High School and near Norfeldt School on Monday.
Police thinks it’s the same bear and are working with the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection.
There have several sightings since Monday. The bear has been spotted hanging out near a trampoline at one home.
This bear has not been curious about nor trying to encounter people, but may be just looking for food. It has been seen running away from people.
Police said it is OK for people to go about their normal activities, like running or taking walks outside, but that they just want the public to be aware of it.
West Harford Police, DEEP, and West Hartford Animal Control are keeping a very close eye on the situation. They are trying to balance leaving the bear alone, with keeping it away from highly populated areas.
Bugbee Elementary, which is located on Asylum Avenue near the Trout Brook, sent a letter to parents notifying them that there had been recent bear sightings in the area south of the Bugbee path.
Due to the sightings, the school is asking students and parents to pick a different route home that doesn’t go near the path. Also, as of dismissal on Tuesday, students were not allowed to use the path.
Police are giving the area extra patrols to the area of the Bugbee path for the next few days.
