Fresno Man Fights Off Black Bear, Drives To Hospital

(AP) - Wildlife authorities say a 67-year-old California man fought off a black bear that attacked him from behind then drove himself to a hospital.

Lt. Chris Stoots of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife said such attacks are rare, but black bear encounters are on the rise due to the drought.

Stoots says the man, whose name was not released, was on his porch Thursday and likely startled the bear that was feeding on trash 20 feet away.

Stoots says it took the man several attempts to fight off the bear and get back inside his home in Midpines, west of Yosemite National Park.

He says the man was bitten and scratched on his arms, legs and stomach. He was able to talk with investigators.

Officials say residents in the 5000 block of Colorado Road in Midpines to keep an eye on children and pets and to be aware of their surroundings. Residents are also urged to never leave trash outdoors.  If you encounter a bear, do not approach. Immediately contact 911.

-Capital Public Radio Staff contributed to this report.