Camera traps to be installed on Vitosha mountain after fatal bear attack

Authorities have urged hikers to remain on marked trails and avoid sudden movements or running if they encounter wild animals in the mountains. The Interior Ministry also advised people to hike in groups whenever possible, make noise while moving through forested areas and avoid leaving food waste behind.

The warning follows a fatal bear attack on Saturday, May 16, near the Rudnichar hut on Vitosha, a popular hiking destination for residents of Sofia. A 35-year-old man was reportedly killed by a mother bear accompanied by a cub. Officials have advised the public to avoid the area until the circumstances surrounding the incident are clarified.

Camera traps will be installed in the area, while experts conduct field inspections and drone surveillance. Sofia police chief Chief Commissioner Lyubomir Nikolov has ordered a permanent police presence to secure the perimeter.

The measures were agreed during a meeting involving representatives of the police, the Environment and Water Ministry, the Agriculture Ministry, Vitosha Nature Park and Sofia Municipality, BTA reported.

The last recorded fatal bear attack in Bulgaria dates back to 2010, in the Rhodope Mountains in the south of the country.

Editor: Miglena Ivanova