Bear hit on I-795 by truck
By From staff reports
Published in News on December 14, 2012 1:46 PM
A tractor-trailer struck and killed a black bear on Interstate 795 early today, leaving the dead animal's carcass lying on the shoulder of the road.
Authorities estimated the male bear's weight at more than 400 pounds.
They said the carcass would be taken to the Cliffs of the Neuse State Park, where officials were considering having the animal stuffed and mounted.
State Highway Patrol officials said the truck driver stopped his rig after hitting the bear. He had to retrieve his front license plate, which had come loose on impact.
No charges were filed.
The accident happened in the southbound lane near the U.S. 70 interchange about 7 a.m.
The bear was crossing from the east side of the highway to the west and was hit in the far lane. Investigators said there were signs that showed the animal had crossed the road at that point numerous times.