Bear Reported Near Alpharetta Elementary School Area, Police Ask Residents to Stay Alert

Residents in part of west Alpharetta reported spotting a black bear this week near a neighborhood close to an elementary school, prompting a public safety warning from local police.

According to reporting by WSB Radio, officers responded to the Lantern Ridge subdivision area near Alpharetta Elementary School after residents reported seeing a bear wandering nearby.

Police said officers searched the area but were unable to locate the animal after arriving on scene.

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Captain Jakai Braithwaite of the Alpharetta Police Department urged residents to stay alert outdoors and closely supervise children and pets.

Officials advised residents to supervise children playing outside, keep pets nearby, and avoid approaching the bear if it is seen again.

Police also warned against trying to take photos or move closer to the animal, noting that bears can behave unpredictably when startled or cornered.

Recent construction and land clearing activity in parts of north Fulton County may be contributing to increased wildlife movement through residential neighborhoods, according to police.

Black bear sightings occasionally occur in North Fulton and South Forsyth during warmer months as animals travel through wooded corridors and developing suburban areas.

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