Reports of a Bear Struck by Vehicle on Route 17 This Morning

Traffic delays on Route 17 were said to be caused by a collision with a black bear this morning.

Just after 6am we received reports of police activity and slow conditions on the westbound side of Route 17 near Chester. Early information said the slow down was due to bear activity. It was unclear if cars were slowing down to avoid the bear, or if the bear had been hit by a vehicle.

Later in the morning eyewitnesses reported seeing a bear that was struck by a vehicle near exit 127. State Police were tending to bear, which was dragged off the road and lying under the guard rail. Onlookers estimated the bear to be between four and five feet.

There have been several bear sightings in our area this week, including one in East Fishkill the other day.

The warm weather has also made deer more active, especially during the cooler. morning hours. Motorists should use extra caution and remember to be on the lookout for wildlife