71-year-old Practice Miller was killed by a black bear in her home in Downieville, Northern California after months of harassment by the animal. Officials initially thought she may have died of natural causes and the bear broke in, but neighbors reported seeing the bear repeatedly return to her house. Miller had installed steel bars to try to keep the bear out before it broke her door down. This incident marked the first documented fatal black bear attack on a human in California.
When Miller’s body was found mauled and partially eaten in her home, it was evident that the bear had been feeding on her remains for several days. Sierra County Sheriff’s deputies discovered her broken door, along with bear scat, blood streaks, and paw prints in her living room. The bear had likely dragged Miller from her bed into the living room, according to the coroner’s report. The small mountain town of Downieville is known for its bear population, with 40% of California’s estimated 65,000 black bears living in the Sierra Nevadas where the town is located.
Miller’s friend Cassie Koch revealed that Miller had wanted the bear to be removed but not harmed before the tragic attack. Koch mentioned that bears were becoming more common in the area than in the past, making their rounds and finding easy pickings. Miller’s gardening and composting practices, along with not immediately disposing of her trash, may have attracted the bear to her home. California Fish and Wildlife officials noted that the town is located in a prime bear habitat, which may have contributed to the increased bear activity.
The bear responsible for Miller’s death was captured and euthanized by authorities. This incident sheds light on the potential dangers of living in close proximity to wildlife, especially in areas where black bears are prevalent. Despite taking precautions such as installing steel bars on her windows, Miller still fell victim to the bear’s aggression. Her death serves as a stark reminder of the importance of coexisting with wildlife and implementing proper safety measures to minimize potential risks.
The Sierra County Sheriff’s Office expressed shock and sadness over the tragic loss of Practice Miller. The community of Downieville mourned the loss of a beloved resident and friend. Miller’s death has sparked discussions about bear safety and the steps that residents can take to prevent similar incidents in the future. Authorities urged residents to remain vigilant and report any aggressive bear behavior to prevent further tragedies. The memory of Practice Miller will live on in the community, reminding them of the importance of respecting wildlife and maintaining a safe environment for all.
