Wildlife officials in New Jersey say a deer hunter in a tree stand has fatally shot a black bear that began climbing up the tree toward him.
A spokesman with the state Department of Environmental Protect says the shooting happened Saturday morning in Hunterdon County.
Authorities say the 24-year-old Sayreville man was armed with a 12-gauge shotgun when he inadvertently made noise that drew the young male bear's attention. The bear then began climbing up the tree supporting the stand, which was 10 to 12 feet high.
Authorities say the hunter shouted at the bear several times, hoping to scare it away. They say he shot the bear when it was about 3 feet away because he feared for his safety.
Wildlife officials say the hunter won't face any charges.
Copyright The Associated Press
