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By Geri Gibbons

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Hazleton Police Chief Frank DeAndrea, seen with the bear, lauded the members of the state Game Commission for their efficiency and concern for the animal.
https://www.timesleader.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/web1_11722022_10206615402360841_1781761916_n.jpg.optimal.jpgHazleton Police Chief Frank DeAndrea, seen with the bear, lauded the members of the state Game Commission for their efficiency and concern for the animal.

HAZLETON — A 500-pound bear went roaming through Hazleton on Tuesday, first seen behind “the castle” (previously Hazleton High School) and then making his way through town, sometimes at a leisurely place and sometimes at a full run.

Finally, in what police described as a “totally exhausted state,” the animal rested in some tall grass near a residence on Wyoming Street.

Still, it ultimately took not one, but two, tranquilizer darts to take the animal down, preparing him for transport to state game lands.

It was not what Police Chief Frank DeAndrea anticipated would be the start to his day, but all-in-all he said crisis was averted because of the compliance of residents and a collaborative effort among police departments, the fire department and the state Game Commission.

The entire Hazleton City Police Department was on scene, with the West Hazleton Police Department fielding its calls for at least an hour.

“At one point the bear was literally running down Broad Street,” said DeAndrea.

DeAndrea believed the bear made his way into town from a wooded area, and then became disoriented.

“Father Victor (at St. Gabriel’s church) was conducting a funeral Mass and attendees were directed to stay inside the building until the matter was resolved,” said DeAndrea.

He said there were some challenging moments after the bear was hit by the tranquilizer dart, and climbed a tree near Boyle Funeral Home.

“I don’t think I was a decoy, but I don’t know,” he said, laughing, relating that he moved a branch to encourage the bear to come down.

Finally, the bear was hit by an additional dart and gently made his way down from the tree. He soon passed out, making it possible to safely transport him.

“I was really impressed by the compassion the game commission showed to the bear, even putting antibiotic ointment on areas where the bear was shot and on previous minor skin injuries.”

In the aftermath of recent tragedies, DeAndrea said capture of the bear provided opportunity for entities to work together successfully for a common cause, sharing a smile and a sense of satisfaction at a job well done.

Reach Geri Gibbons at 570-991-6117 or on Twitter @TLGGibbons.