Black Bear Meandering Through White Plains Neighborhoods Tranquilized And Relocated

WHITE PLAINS, NY — Public safety officials pulled out all the stops for a surprise VIP visitor to a Westchester Chester County community.

On Wednesday, White Plains City Police Department Patrol and Emergency Services Unit (ESU) Officers responded to reports of a black bear roaming through residential neighborhoods in the city. The tuckered bear eventually climbed a tree for a bird's-eye view of town.

Working with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, The ESU officers secured the area while DEC officers carefully tranquilized the bear.

"The bear will be relocated to a more suitable habitat in upstate New York, where it can continue its adventures far from busy neighborhoods," WPCPD said in a statement. "We appreciate the patience and cooperation of our residents who helped ensure this incident had a safe outcome for both the public and the bear."

Police used the opportunity to remind the public to give our wild neighbors a wide berth, while praising the community effort.

"If you encounter a bear, keep your distance, never approach or feed it, and report any immediate public safety concerns by calling 911," the department said. "Safe for the community. Safe for the bear. Great teamwork all around."