Bear Euthanized After Attacking Camper In California

ALTADENA (CBS) – A campground in California's Angeles National Forest is back open after wildlife officials say a bear attacked a camper.

When something like this happens, it's state policy to euthanize the animal.

"Once there's an attack, we have to err on the side of caution and assume that bear has been conditioned or maybe has lost that fear of humans," said Lt. J.C. Healy with the Department of Fish and Wildlife. "So we have to assume that bear may do it again."

Fish and Wildlife wardens say black bear attacks in the area are extremely rare.

When they do happen, experts say the bears are usually attracted to a scent – most likely food.

But the man attacked in this case says he didn't have any food in his tent, he was just looking at his iPad when the bear swiped at his head.

That man needed stitches but will be okay.

Neighbors are upset that the bear had to die.

JIM banks campground user

"They could've put it in a zoo, just not too far from here there's a wildlife preserve or something like that," said campground user Jim Banks.

Fish and wildlife wardens say they used DNA evidence to confirm that they euthanized the right animal.

"I'm glad that people can feel safe here, I'm sorry that a bear had to lose his life," said nearby resident Jonathan Hofer.