Search-and-rescue crews searching for a missing hiker on a Montana national park trail have discovered a body, according to officials. The National Park Service stated that the deceased suffered injuries consistent with a bear encounter.
The body was located around noon the day prior to Thursday, approximately 2.5 miles up and 50 feet off the Mt. Brown Trail in Glacier National Park.
The victim has been identified as 33-year-old Anthony Pollio of Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Pollio was reported missing Monday afternoon, and his vehicle was located at Lake McDonald Lodge within the park.
According to park officials, Pollio had planned to hike toward the Mt. Brown Fire Lookout. His last known message was sent at approximately 8:20 p.m. local time on Sunday.
The National Park Service is withholding the identity of the victim for 72 hours following next-of-kin notifications. Wildlife and law enforcement personnel are currently assessing the area for bear activity and public safety concerns. The section of the Mt. Brown Trail where the body was found has been temporarily closed during the ongoing investigation.
National park statistics indicate there have been 11 confirmed fatal bear attacks in the park since its inception, all occurring after 1967. The last human fatality from a bear in the Two Medicine Valley occurred on May 17, 1998, involving Craig Dhal.
The most recent injury caused by a bear in the park took place in August.
