Bear attacks Colorado resort security guard in hotel kitchen

A bear attacked a security guard Monday night in the kitchen of the St. Regis Aspen Resort.

The guard was treated for scratches on his back and later released from the hospital, but Colorado Parks and Wildlife officers were unable to safely capture the bear, according to a Tuesday news release.

About 11 p.m., the security guard had been investigating reports of a bear in the hotel when he suddenly came upon the bear in the kitchen.

He was rounding the corner to another part of the kitchen and surprised the bear, and the bear attacked the guard, swiping at him and knocking him to the ground, the news release stated.

CPW officers arrived just after midnight to investigate and search for the bear. They learned the bear entered the hotel through a series of doors near the courtyard.

Officers searched the area Tuesday morning and found the bear near the hotel but were unable to tranquilize and capture it due to public safety, the news release stated.

Officers were set to return Tuesday evening to search for the bear again.

Wildlife officers said this is an unfortunate reminder to be “bear aware” while they are active and preparing for hibernation, and everyone is responsible for giving wildlife space.