Williamson County, IL – Deputies from the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office confirmed a black bear sighting near playground equipment in the eastern part of the county early Thursday morning.
According to Sheriff Jeff Diederich, the bear was seen near Galatia Post and Angleville Roads around 6:10 a.m. Multiple witnesses reported the sighting, sparking concerns for public safety. The sheriff’s office has urged residents to avoid approaching the bear and to exercise caution, especially in areas where children are likely to play.
“This is a confirmed sighting with multiple witnesses,” Diederich stated. “The public should not approach the bear and are asked to report future sightings to the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office at 618-997-6541.”
Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and have increased patrols in the area to ensure the safety of residents. Wildlife experts advise that black bears are generally not aggressive but can become dangerous if they feel threatened. Residents are encouraged to secure food sources and garbage to avoid attracting the bear.
