A 'fearless' hiker left his father a heartbreaking voicemail just moments before he was attacked by a bear in Montana's Glacier National Park.
Details of the Incident
Anthony Pollio, 33, had been on a solo hike during a two-week holiday when he suddenly vanished without a trace. The experienced athlete had called his father while exploring a mountain trail, telling him he loved him. Days later, search crews discovered his body in a remote, wooded area at Glacier National Park. Authorities believe he was mauled by a bear during a hike.
Background of the Victim
Pollio, a university graduate, had 'communicated plans' to complete a famous route, hoping to reach the Mount Brown Fire Lookout. Rangers and police launched an operation to find him after relatives reported him missing. His body was found approximately 50 feet off the Mount Brown Trail in a densely wooded area with fallen timber.
Glacier National Park stated: 'The sequence of events leading to the bear encounter remains under investigation; however, evidence suggests that this was a surprise encounter.' The park noted that Pollio's injuries were 'consistent with those sustained by a bear encounter.' The trail has been temporarily closed while the investigation continues.
Father's Account
Pollio's devastated father, Arthur, told Florida outlets that his son had left him a voicemail while hiking. According to NBC6 and the South Florida Sun Sentinel, Pollio told his dad he loved him and described the mountain trail. Arthur also told WPLG Local 10 that his son was 'a fearless man' and a seasoned outdoorsman. Family members believe Pollio may have encountered a grizzly bear while descending the trail.
Authorities reportedly discovered bear spray among his belongings. Pollio, a graduate of the University of Central Florida, had visited numerous national parks and was described as passionate about animals and outdoor adventure. He worked as a service adviser in Florida and volunteered as a church deacon.
Context and Recent Attacks
The fatal attack is thought to be the first deadly bear encounter in Glacier National Park since 1998. It comes after a bear attack in Yellowstone National Park left two hikers injured. Hiker Craig Lerman recorded video of one injured hiker lying on the ground with facial injuries, wearing a bloodied shirt. That was the first bear injury in Yellowstone this year.
