Louisiana
A black bear attack recently killed a Florida woman. Here’s where they’re found in Louisiana
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On May 5, in Jerome, Florida, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission responded to a call regarding a bear encounter, where one person and one dog were found dead at the scene.
Officials warned residents that the bear may still be in the area and, therefore, the area should be avoided. This is the second bear attack in Florida in 2025.
While black bear attacks are rare, as the species is typically non-aggressive, there are chances when encounters could escalate.
Where are black bears found in Louisiana?
Now, as they emerge from their dens after hibernation, black bears may be more active during the spring as they search for food after winter.
Black bears are most active during the fall, before hibernation, and are less active overall during the summer due to lower food supply. Additionally, black bears are also most active during early morning and late evening, especially around dawn and dusk.
In Louisiana, black bears are predominantly found in forested wetlands along the Mississippi Valley, particularly within the Tensas and Atchafalaya River Basins, according to the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.
Black bears have also been sighted in other regions of the state, including the Kisatchie National Forest and in various parishes such as Allen, Natchitoches and East Baton Rouge.
In addition to this, recent reports indicate an increase in black bear activity and sightings, especially in the southeast and central areas of the state.
Black bear population in Louisiana
The black bear, which is Louisiana’s official state mammal, has recently recovered from threatened status and is now considered a viable species.
The black bear population in Louisiana is estimated to be between 1,200 to 1,500, and the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries works to monitor the black bear population in certain regions of the state where they are most concentrated.
The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries has also taken efforts to expand and connect black bear habitats through reforestation and translocation.
Now, black bear sightings have increased in some areas, and they are becoming more common in areas where they were once less prevalent.
What should you do if you encounter a black bear?
As black bear activity and sightings increase, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is advocating for public awareness and education regarding bear safety and to prevent attracting bears to residential areas.
When encountering a black bear, the main goal is to remain calm and avoid actions that could provoke or escalate the situation. Therefore, individuals should back away slowly, make noise to alert the bear of your presence and ensure that the bear has an escape route, says the National Park Service.
If you are unable to back away calmly and quietly, and the bear shows aggression, then it’s recommended that you stand your ground, make yourself appear large and use bear spray if necessary. Then, if the bear attacks, you should fight back aggressively, according to the National Parks Service.
Have there been bear attacks in Louisiana?
Black bear attacks on humans are very rare and, while there have been reports of attacks in other states, there is no evidence of attacks occurring in Louisiana, says Louisiana Sportsman.
Presley Bo Tyler is a reporter for the Louisiana Deep South Connect Team for Gannett/USA Today. Find her on X @PresleyTyler02 and email at PTyler@Gannett.com
Yasin Gungor
19 April 2026•Update: 19 April 2026
At least eight children were killed and two others were wounded in a shooting in the US state of Louisiana, local police said Sunday.
Shreveport Police Department spokesperson Christopher Bordelon said officers responded to the shooting just after 6 am (1100GMT), following a domestic disturbance call.
The age of the deceased ranged from one to 14 years, he said, adding that the incident involved at least 10 individuals across four separate locations.
The suspect attempted to flee by carjacking a vehicle and driving to neighboring Bossier City, where police located and shot him dead.
Bordelon said Shreveport police officers pursued the suspect’s vehicle into Bossier, where three officers discharged their firearms, killing him. He said investigators believe the suspect was the only person who opened fire at the locations.
Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux described the attack as “maybe the worst tragic situation we’ve ever had,” adding: “It’s a terrible morning.”
No immediate information was available about the condition of the injured.
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When it comes to retiring, the best places to do so often are affordable, have a high quality of life and access to quality healthcare.
If you’re looking for a place to retire, Niche has identified the best places for retirees in Louisiana.
In its list, Niche has taken into account factors like weather, crime rates, housing costs and access to amenities.
The 5 best places to retire in Louisiana according to Niche
These are the top five best places to retire in Louisiana, according to Niche.
1. Oak Hills Place
Oak Hills Place is a suburb of Baton Rouge and is the overall best place to retire in Louisiana. This suburb, located in East Baton Rouge Parish, has a population of 9,038 and offers residents an urban suburban mix feel. The area is highly rated for families, diversity, as well as health and fitness. Here, the median home value is $437,900 and the median rent is $1,422, according to Niche.
2. Westminster
Westminster is another suburb of Baton Rouge and is the second-best place to retire in Louisiana. Located in East Baton Rouge Parish, this suburb has a population of 2,559 and offers residents an urban suburban mix feel. This area is highly rated for nightlife, diversity, families, health and fitness, as well as commute. The median home value here is $266,100 and the median rent is $1,482, says Niche.
3. River Ridge
River Ridge is a suburb of New Orleans, located in Jefferson Parish, and is the third-best place to retire in Louisiana. This suburb has a population of 13,312 and offers residents a dense suburban feel. The area is highly rated for public schools, family, nightlife and diversity. The median home value is $357,400 and the median rent is $1,127, according to Niche.
4. Westlake
Westlake is a town in Calcasieu Parish that is among the best places to retire in Louisiana. With a population of 4,743, this town offers residents a rural feel. The town is highly rated for public schools, housing, families, jobs, cost of living, nightlife and weather. Here, the median home value is $166,100 and the median rent is $1,049, says Niche.
5. Prien
Prien is another town in Calcasieu Parish that is among the best places to retire in Louisiana. This town has a population of 7,119 and offers residents a suburban rural mix feel. The town is highly rated for public schools, housing, families, nightlife and weather. The median home value here is $278,000 and the median rent is $1,292, according to Niche.
Presley Bo Tyler is the Louisiana Deep South Connect Team reporter for USA Today Network. Find her on X @PresleyTyler02 and email at PTyler@Gannett.com
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