A daring hiker left a poignant voicemail for his father shortly before being attacked by a bear. Anthony Pollio, aged 33, disappeared during a solo hike while on a two-week vacation. He contacted his father from a mountain trail, expressing his love before vanishing without a trace. Several days later, his body was found in a secluded wooded area at Glacier National Park in Montana, USA. Authorities believe he was mauled by a bear during his hike. Pollio, a university graduate, had shared plans to complete a renowned route aiming to reach the Mount Brown Fire Lookout.
National Park rangers and police initiated a search operation after Pollio was reported missing by his family. His body was eventually located approximately 50ft off the Mount Brown Trail in a densely wooded area. Glacier National Park stated that the circumstances leading to the bear encounter are still under investigation but indicated it was an unexpected event.
The park confirmed that Pollio’s injuries were consistent with a bear encounter, leading to the temporary closure of the trail for ongoing investigations. Pollio’s father, Arthur, disclosed that his son had left a voicemail during the hike, expressing affection and describing the trail he was exploring. Described as a fearless outdoorsman, Pollio’s family speculates that he may have encountered a grizzly bear on the trail. Authorities discovered bear spray among his belongings, indicating he was prepared for such encounters.
Pollio, a University of Central Florida graduate, had a passion for wildlife and outdoor activities, having visited numerous national parks. Reports indicate he worked as a service adviser in Florida and volunteered as a church deacon. This tragic incident marks the first deadly bear encounter in Glacier National Park since 1998.
