• Robert Markel, 89, and his dog were killed in apparent separate bear attacks near Jerome, Florida, marking the first documented fatal bear attack in Florida's history.
• Following the attacks, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) euthanized three bears in the vicinity, sending their remains for DNA testing to determine involvement.
• The attacks prompted warnings from FWC for residents and visitors to exercise caution and avoid approaching or tracking wildlife in the affected area.

On May 5, 2025, Robert Markel, an 89-year-old resident of Jerome, Florida, and his dog were killed in what appear to be separate bear attacks. The incidents occurred near State Road 29 and U.S. 41, south of the Big Cypress Wildlife Management Area. A family member discovered the dog had been attacked and Markel missing. Authorities later found Markel's body approximately 100 yards from his trailer. The FWC is investigating, and the incident is the first recorded fatal bear attack in Florida's history.

• What: Robert Markel, 89, and his dog were killed in apparent separate bear attacks. Three bears were euthanized by the FWC, and their DNA is being tested to determine their involvement in the attacks. The incident marks the first recorded fatal bear attack in Florida.
• Who: Robert Markel (victim), Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), Collier County Sheriff’s Office, Sue Story (Markel's granddaughter).
• When: The attacks occurred on May 5, 2025. The Collier County Sheriff’s Office received a call shortly after 7 a.m. The FWC provided updates on May 6, 2025.
• Where: The attacks occurred near State Road 29 and U.S. 41 near Jerome, in Collier County, Florida, south of the Big Cypress Wildlife Management Area.

The death of Robert Markel and his dog in a bear attack is a tragic and unprecedented event in Florida's history. It raises concerns about human-wildlife interactions, particularly in areas near wildlife management areas. The FWC's swift response, including euthanizing the bears and conducting DNA testing, reflects the seriousness with which they are treating the incident. The investigation will focus on determining whether the attacks were isolated incidents or indicative of a larger problem with bear behavior in the area. The event serves as a reminder of the potential dangers of living in close proximity to wildlife and the importance of taking precautions to avoid encounters.

"We do know it was a bear attack. We don't know if it was the same bear or multiple bears,"

"Stand your ground. Make yourself look large. Talk to the bear in a calm fashion. Do not run. Do not play dead."

"He's already killed a dog," the first of two callers, identifying as a grandson of Markel and his father, reported, later adding that, "One of the bears is still here."

The tragic deaths of Robert Markel and his dog in Collier County mark a grim milestone as the first confirmed fatal bear attack in Florida's recorded history, prompting a comprehensive investigation by the FWC. The FWC's efforts include DNA testing of three euthanized bears to ascertain their involvement in the attacks, with results expected soon. The incident, which occurred near the Big Cypress Wildlife Management Area, has triggered renewed safety alerts for both residents and visitors, emphasizing vigilance and caution in bear-inhabited zones. This unprecedented event has also reignited discussions regarding proactive bear management strategies, including a potential bear hunt, alongside ongoing efforts to educate the public on coexisting safely with Florida's expanding black bear population. The FWC is urging residents to secure their property, especially trash, and be aware of their surroundings.