‘Falling Bear’ Blamed For Highway Fire, Destruction of Cop Car

California transportation officials are cautioning drivers to watch out after a “falling bear” triggered a bizarre fiery crash before fleeing the scene.

On August 7, Caltrans District 1 shared the unusual story about the August 3 incident on in a Facebook post:

CAUTION FALLING BEAR! A Humboldt County Sherriff’s patrol vehicle was struck by a falling bear while traveling north on Highway 96 last week. The vehicle caught fire after striking an embankment and the deputy escaped the vehicle without serious injury. Don’t worry, the bear also fled the scene.

Travelers are reminded to stay alert while exploring the beautiful highways and nature of District 1. Bears, elk and deer are just some of the critters sharing our coastal home. (Photos courtesy of the Hoopa Fire Department and Office of Emergency Services)

The bear is believed to have fallen or for some reason jumped off an embankment and landed directly on the hood of the deputy’s cruiser.

Caltrans also shared remarkable images of the damage done by the clumsy bear.