by Markleysburg, Pa. — What started as a quick shopping trip at a Family Dollar turned into a heart-pounding wildlife encounter for an 11-year-old boy who found himself being chased by a black bear in rural Pennsylvania. The startling incident was captured on security cameras and has left the community stunned at how close the call truly was.
A Routine Errand Turns Terrifying
Cole Frazee was out shopping with his father when he briefly stepped outside the store, only to come face-to-face with a towering black bear. Speaking with CBS News Pittsburgh, the young boy said he immediately feared for his life.
“I’m probably going to be eaten by a bear,” Frazee recalled thinking during the frightening moment.
According to Cole, the bear immediately ran after him, getting as close as a foot and a half before he bolted back into the store, screaming for help. His quick instinct to run for shelter likely prevented a dangerous outcome.
A Split-Second Decision Saved Him
Once inside, Frazee sprinted down the aisles of the Family Dollar with the bear close behind. Just feet away from danger, he made a quick turn that ultimately helped him escape.
“I took a left,” he said, “and the bear went straight.”
That split-second move created just enough distance for him to jump onto the store counter alongside a cashier, both desperate to get a view of where the bear had headed. When they saw the animal move toward the back of the building, they seized the opportunity to flee.
Frazee said the cashier grabbed her coat, keys, and phone, and the two ran out the front door. They quickly got into a car outside the store, shaken but safe.
Bear Wanders Alone Inside the Store
Security footage shows the bear wandering the aisles after the boy and cashier fled. At one point, the animal climbed behind the same counter where the two had been standing moments before.
The bear explored the store for roughly 10 minutes, rummaging around before eventually finding its way back outside. Fortunately, no one was injured.
Frazee described the ordeal as “one in a million,” adding that he was relieved once it was over.
“It was definitely a crazy experience,” he said.
Why Bears Wander Into Populated Areas
Black bears are not uncommon in Pennsylvania, but encounters of this nature remain rare. According to the Pennsylvania Game Commission, bears that live near populated areas can sometimes become accustomed to human activity.
“Most bears will run from a human, but some that live in close proximity to people can become habituated and appear indifferent,” the agency notes.
Bears tend to increase their food intake in the fall months, which can drive them into neighborhoods or commercial areas when natural food sources are scarce. The Game Commission lists common attractants such as bird feeders, garbage cans, backyard grills, and even pet food.
The agency warns that bears who learn to seek out human-provided food sources may return repeatedly, increasing the risk of encounters like the one Cole experienced.
Read Also: Instagram Foodie Accused of Running Dine-and-Dash Scheme at Trendy NYC Restaurants
“Bears that forage on human-provided foods often become nuisances,” the Commission explains, adding that removing attractants is one of the most effective prevention strategies.
A Reminder to Stay Alert During Bear Season
Local wildlife officials are reminding residents to be vigilant, especially in rural or wooded areas where bear populations are active. While black bears are generally timid, they can become unpredictable if startled or if food is readily accessible.
Cole Frazee’s experience highlights how quickly a routine day can turn dangerous — and how remaining aware of surroundings can make all the difference.
Share Your Thoughts
What steps should communities take to prevent wildlife from entering public spaces like stores? Join the conversation at mikeandjonpodcast.com.
