TWIGGS COUNTY, Ga. — A black bear was killed and a Georgia sheriff’s deputy was injured after two vehicles hit the animal on a Georgia interstate.
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According to the Twiggs County Sheriff’s Office, the crash happened around 12:30 a.m. Friday on the eastbound lanes of Interstate 16.
A citizen’s vehicle hit the bear after it suddenly ran into the roadway in the darkness. A sheriff’s deputy traveling behind the citizen then hit the bear with a patrol vehicle.
Both vehicles sustained minor damage.
The deputy suffered minor injuries and was taken to a hospital in Macon for treatment. The deputy was later treated and released. The citizen was not injured.
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The bear died from its injuries.
Following the collision, the sheriff’s office reminded motorists to use caution when driving at night, when wildlife can enter roadways with little warning.
Drivers are encouraged to slow down, wear seat belts, avoid distractions and watch for animals along roadways and shoulders.
The sheriff’s office also urged motorists to maintain a safe distance from other vehicles and remain alert for unexpected hazards, particularly when visibility is limited.
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