Bear sightings prompt precautionary lockdown in Hudsonville neighborhoods
Residents in Georgetown Township were on high alert Friday morning after a series of black bear sightings triggered a police search and prompted local schools to keep students indoors.
GEORGETOWN TWP. — Residents in Georgetown Township were on high alert Friday morning after a series of black bear sightings triggered a police search and prompted local schools to keep students indoors.
The Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office began receiving multiple reports of a bear roaming through residential areas near Baldwin Street and 42nd Avenue at approximately 9:41 a.m. Dispatchers noted that the reports originated from the Schoolside Drive and Hidden Lake Drive neighborhoods.
Deputies were unable to locate the animal; however, digital evidence provided by residents — including doorbell and security camera footage — confirmed the bear’s presence in those neighborhoods between 6:30 a.m. and 7:10 a.m. April 17.
Out of an abundance of caution, officials contacted the Hudsonville Public School system. Although the school day proceeded as scheduled, administrators opted to keep all students inside the buildings as a safety precaution while the animal remained at large.
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources was notified.
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Authorities emphasized that there have been no reports of injuries or aggressive behavior thus far. However, the sheriff’s office urged residents to be cautious because bears can be unpredictable, particularly if they feel cornered or are guarding food.
"Residents are encouraged to avoid approaching the animal. If a bear is observed behaving aggressively or posing an immediate threat, individuals should contact 911 immediately," the sheriff's office said in a news release.
Residents were encouraged to ensure that bird feeders and trash cans are inaccessible, to never attempt to take photos or "selfies" in close proximity to the animal, and to keep domestic animals indoors or on short leashes.
— Submitted by the Ottawa County Sheriff's Office. To submit a news tip, email newsroom@ottawanewsnetwork.org.
