HOBBLE CREEK CANYON — A black bear was shot and killed by a camp host after it was perceived as a threat to children camping in this area Friday evening.

Shawn Bagley, a conservation officer for the U.S. Division of Wildlife Services, said the bear was first spotted by a small girl playing with her sister at a group campsite occupied by 15 children and parents. Adults moved the children into vehicles and attempted to frighten the bear, but they were forced to contact the camp host when the bear stayed.

The camp host tried to frighten the bear by firing his shotgun in the air and throwing rocks at it, but it remained close to campsites.

"With so many people and the bear not responding, (the camp host) felt that shooting it was his only option," Bagley said.

The bear was about 2 years old, Bagley said.

Wildlife Services is conducting an investigation into the incident and will report its findings to the courts.

Bagley reminded campers that the forests are bear country and to take necessary precautions to avoid the animals. He said clean campsites are imperative, because the strong smells of camp food can draw the bears from miles away.

— Clayton Norlen