The Arkansas Game & Fish Commission (AGFC) announced Thursday that final DNA analysis from the Veterinary Forensic Science Laboratory at the University of Florida confirms the black bear killed on October 4 in Newton County does not match the bear responsible for the fatal attack on Max Thomas, 60, of Springfield.
Thomas was discovered on October 2 in the Sam’s Throne Campground in the Ozark National Forest. A bear was euthanized three days later based on photographic evidence and physical characteristics.
With the attacking bear still at large, AGFC continues efforts—using traps and game cameras—to locate and safely remove it. The area remains under restricted access to protect the public.
AGFC Director Doug Schoenrock emphasized the agency’s priority on safety: “While we are disappointed that the initial search did not neutralize the threat, our commitment to public safety remains paramount… now that we have definitive forensic data, we are adjusting our strategy.”
Arkansas Game & Fish Commission
The AGFC urges visitors and campers in the region to remain bear-aware: store food and scented items securely, report aggressive or unafraid bears to the AGFC radio room at 833-356-0824, and respect the current closures around Sam’s Throne Campground until further notice.
For further details and bear-safety resources, visit the AGFC website.
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