Update Shared in Story of Bear Found Atop a Telephone Pole

A black bear that captured widespread public attention after becoming stranded high atop a utility pole in northeastern New Mexico has died, bringing a heartbreaking end to a story that many people across the country followed with hope.

Images and videos of the bear balancing on the wooden pole circulated rapidly online, prompting thousands of comments from people expressing concern for the animal’s safety. Wildlife officials later confirmed that the bear died after coming into contact with energized electrical equipment while attempting to climb down.