A Colorado homeowner successfully fought off a bear that charged at hime twice outside of his home in Clear Creek County on Thursday, October 22nd. According to a report from Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW), the man did sustain injuries during the encounter and did seek medical treatment.
The reported attack occurred around 1am on Castlewood Drive. The homeowner heard noises on his deck and discovered a bear near his trash cans. The man attempted to scare the bear away by yelling, but the animal ran toward him. He told CPW that he pushed the bear away, only for it to charge him a second time. The homeowner then kicked the bear in self defense and the animal fled the property.
CPW officers responded to the incident but could not locate the bear. Wildlife officials will continue looking for signs of bear activity in the area and are asking nearby residents to remove trash and other potential bear attractants.
Colorado Reports 12th Bear Attack of 2026
The incident marks the 12th reported bear attack in Colorado in 2026, according to CPW. Residents are reminded that unsecured garbage and other food sources can attract bears into residential neighborhoods, increasing the likelihood of encounters with people.
Bears are often drawn to homes by the smell of food, particularly when garbage, recycling and other attractants are left accessible. Once bears learn that residential areas provide easy meals, they may return to those locations.
CPW encourages Colorado residents to follow its BearWise guidelines to help prevent conflicts with wildlife.
How to Keep Bears Away From Your Home
Colorado Parks and Wildlife recommends several precautions to reduce the risk of bear encounters.
Residents should secure garbage and recycling, remove bird feeders when bears are active, and avoid leaving pet food outside. Grills should be cleaned after every use to remove grease and food residue, then stored in a secure location.
CPW also warns people never to feed or approach bears. Residents who spot a bear or notice signs of bear activity should alert their neighbors so others can take precautions.
Wildlife officials emphasize that preventing bears from accessing human food is one of the most effective ways to reduce human-bear conflicts. Keeping garbage and other attractants secured can help protect Colorado communities while allowing bears to remain wild.