Black bear dies trapped in unlocked car in Colorado

A black bear died after becoming trapped inside an unlocked car in Colorado Springs, Colorado, as temperatures rose, highlighting a sharp increase in bear-human conflicts across the state this year. The animal, estimated to weigh between 250 and 300 pounds, broke into the vehicle, tore apart the interior, and was unable to escape when the door closed behind it. Its body was discovered several days later on the front passenger seat, according to Colorado Parks and Wildlife.

The incident occurred in central Colorado Springs. Wildlife Officer Travis Sauder explained that bears are often able to open unlocked car doors while searching for food but can struggle to get out if the door closes. "Typically what happens is they pull the door open, get in, get their food, and then they leave," Sauder said. "But sometimes the door closes behind them, and they have trouble figuring out how to get out." Photographs released by the agency show the vehicle's interior covered in fur and dirt.

The death comes amid a significant rise in bear encounters in Colorado. Between January 1 and August 13, 2026, Colorado Parks and Wildlife received 6,129 reports of bear sightings and conflicts, nearly...