The world's famous mother bear Grizzly 399 was killed in an accident last week. Aged 28, 399 lost her life after a car hit her south of Grand Teton National Park on October 22. She is survived by her male yearling cub named Spirit who has been missing since the accident.
Grizzly 399 was among the most popular bears and had a massive following of over 50,000 on Instagram. She was nicknamed 'Queen of the Tetons' in a PBS documentary due to her popularity.
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According to the Jackson Hole News and Guide, the officials revealed that the driver who hit the bear was aware of the wildlife in the area. He was allegedly driving cautiously. When the bear allegedly stepped on the road, he could not stop the vehicle in time to avoid the collision. Therefore, it was reportedly an accident.
"The deputy, during his investigation, noted the damage to the vehicle, noted the size of the bear, and determined that the individual was not driving in excess speed," said Lincoln County Sheriff's Office Patrol Lieutenant John Stetzenbach.
In an Instagram post, fans of Grizzly 399 were informed about her tragic death. A photographer named Mike Cavaroc penned how 399 passed away and how her fans will miss her.
"I am sorry to report that 399 was struck and killed by a car yesterday and has died from her injuries. The location of her yearling cub is unknown at this time. A bear so beloved requires more than this short statement and as we know more we will be sure to update. But I wanted to let folks know more as soon as it could be confirmed. Rest in peace and power brave and strong heart, you will be missed. Thank you, for everything."
Netizens are mourning the loss of the mama bear. Many are penning their thoughts on social media explaining how the news of 399's death was heartbreaking. An Instagram user wrote,
"Crying. a lot. such a huge piece of yellowstone and teton national parks is gone. she taught humans so much about the love and sacrifice of a mother."
"Devastating that is wasn’t natural causes. She will forever be remembered as the Queen of the Grizzlies," penned another.
How did Grizzly 399 become famous?
According to photographer Thomas D. Mangelsen's website, Grizzly 399 was first spotted by him in May 2006. He caught a glimpse of the bear when she was a youngster feasting on a moose carcass on the shore of the Oxbow Bend. A year later, a schoolteacher from Lander was bitten by the bear and her three cubs.
According to Cowboy State Daily, author Todd Wilkinson revealed that the teacher found 399 feeding on an elk with her cubs. She and her cubs then bit his rump. However, the teacher requested the rangers not to kill the bear and advocated for her to live her life in the woods. The National Park Service then took the decision not to relocate the bear who had 28 cubs and grand cubs throughout her life.
Wilkinson also wrote the book Grizzly 399: The World's Most Famous Mother Bear.
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