Gatlinburg, United States - July 25, 2024

The Gatlinburg Police Department (GPD) issued a statement today addressing false claims circulating on social media regarding an alleged incident involving a bear on July 25, 2024. Contrary to rumors, the GPD emphasized that no firearms were discharged and no bear was harmed during the incident.

According to Gatlinburg Police Chief Ronnie Barrett, officers responded to a call in the Reagan Drive area late that evening after receiving reports of a bear sighting. Upon arrival, an officer deployed a firecracker as per recommended hazing techniques advised by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA). This method is intended to scare the bear away from populated areas without causing harm to the animal or bystanders.

Chief Barrett reiterated the department's commitment to using non-lethal methods whenever possible to manage wildlife encounters. "Our officers are trained to prioritize public safety and the well-being of wildlife," he stated. Body camera footage and multiple witness statements corroborate that only a firecracker was used, and no bear was seen or harmed during the incident.

Earlier in June, the GPD received training from TWRA on handling bear-related calls until wildlife officers arrive. This training includes using techniques like loud noises and non-lethal firearms to safely deter bears from residential areas.