According to Fish and Game biologist Kevin Brennan, officers tried to scare the bear initially with noises and non-lethal shots. When it refused to budge, game wardens switched to bullets. Brennan said that in some cases, bears can be moved after being tranquilized. However, this specific scenario proved too dangerous because it's especially hazardous to keep a wounded bear in the community.
The animal was suffering from severe injuries to its leg and head and had likely been hit by a car.
Officials say the family who lives in the Cherry Valley home feels terrible about the bear's death, but they understand that there were no better options.
AP contributed to this report.
