LAKE VIEW TERRACE, CA — A quiet Sunday evening at one of the San Fernando Valley’s most popular recreation spots turned into a scene of high-stakes drama as a large bear forced the emergency evacuation of Hansen Dam Park.
The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) moved quickly to clear the area after the animal was spotted roaming through the park’s recreation zones. According to officials, the bear was seen scaling at least three different trees, seemingly seeking refuge as it wandered further into the urban landscape.
Quick Response and Public Safety
The sighting was reported in the late afternoon, a peak time for families and hikers at the park. LAPD officers immediately cordoned off the entrances and utilized loudspeakers to order visitors to exit the park.
“The bear moved between several trees in the recreation area,” a spokesperson for the LAPD confirmed. “Because of the proximity to playgrounds and hiking trails, we had to ensure every visitor was safely out of the park before the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) could begin their operation.”
Hansen Dam remains closed to the public until further notice. Officials are waiting to ensure the bear has either retreated back into the Angeles National Forest or has been safely relocated by wildlife experts.
Incident Overview at a Glance
| Category | Details |
| Location | Hansen Dam Recreation Area, Lake View Terrace, CA |
| Time of Incident | Sunday Evening (Evacuation began approx. 6:00 PM) |
| Animal Status | Large Bear; last seen in trees within the park |
| Injuries | Zero injuries reported to the public or law enforcement |
| Responding Agencies | LAPD and California Dept. of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) |
| Park Status | CLOSED until further notice |
Wildlife Experts Monitor the Situation
While black bear sightings aren’t entirely unheard of in the foothills of the San Fernando Valley, a bear making its way this deep into a high-traffic park like Hansen Dam is a significant concern for the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
Experts note that bears often wander into urban areas in search of water or easy food sources, especially as the seasons change. The goal for CDFW wardens is a “passive retreat,” where the bear is given a quiet, clear path to return to the mountains on its own. However, if the bear remains in the trees near residential zones, tranquilizers may be used to move the animal safely.
A Message to Local Residents
Residents in Lake View Terrace, Sylmar, and Sunland-Tujunga are advised to remain vigilant. When a bear is pushed out of a park, it may wander into nearby backyards looking for a place to hide.
Safety Tips for Valley Residents:
- Secure Trash Cans: Bears have an incredible sense of smell.
- Bring Pets Indoors: Especially during the evening hours while the bear is still at large.
- Do Not Approach: If you see the bear in your neighborhood, call 911 immediately and stay indoors.
