Brown Bear Electrocuted After Climbing Power Pole as Horrified Onlookers Watch
Synopsis
A brown bear was stranded on an electricity pole in Minneapolis, prompting multiple emergency calls. Witnesses were advised not to attempt a rescue.
A brown bear was electrocuted after becoming stranded on top of an electricity pole in Raton, New Mexico, on July 21, bystanders confirmed.
A viral video showed the bear perched atop the pole as witnesses called emergency services. The bear clung to the pole for several minutes, but before any emergency crew could arrive, it was electrocuted.
Bystanders reported that the bear died on the spot due to electrocution. No rescue operation could be mounted in time.
This is a recent story from 20 hrs ago in Raton, New Mexico. The bear was electrocuted and died. https://t.co/TvVhc21yX3https://t.co/cOC5wYyHcBhttps://t.co/DuTdszutIj
— Dyana (@Dyana_) July 22, 2026
Similar Incident Occurred in Arizona Last Year
A similar incident took place in Arizona last year, though the Raton event occurred on Wednesday, July 21. Wildlife officials have not commented on the incident.
The bear's death has drawn attention to the dangers wildlife face near power infrastructure.