Dad Recalls Final Voicemail Son Left Mid-Hike Before Death by Apparent Bear Attack

A tragic incident in Glacier National Park has resulted in the confirmed death of a 33-year-old man believed to have been the victim of a bear attack. Anthony Pollio, a Florida resident and experienced hiker, was reported missing before search teams discovered his remains on May 6, 2023.

Pollio’s body was located around midday on the Mount Brown Trail, approximately 2.5 miles from the trailhead. Authorities indicated that his remains were found in a densely wooded area, roughly 50 feet off the established path. Initial assessments of his injuries suggested they were consistent with a bear encounter, prompting further investigations by park officials.

The circumstances surrounding the encounter with the bear are still under scrutiny. Glacier National Park officials stated that evidence indicates it was likely a surprise encounter, although the full sequence of events remains unclear. Pollio’s family is now grappling with their loss, describing him as both fearless and intelligent.

Arthur Pollio, Anthony’s father, recounted a heartfelt voicemail his son left shortly before his final hike. In the message, Anthony updated his father on his activities in the park and expressed his love. Arthur spoke about his son’s experience as an outdoorsman, noting that Anthony was an adept hunter, having spent over two decades honing his skills. He remarked on the irony of his son’s tragic fate, saying, “He’s an educated man, and the bear just attacked him and killed him.”

The elder Pollio also shared cherished memories of Anthony’s varied interests, which included a love for animals and a passion for racing. He described his son as a “motorhead” and noted his role as a church deacon and natural leader throughout his career. “His life experiences in 33 years, some people don’t get to do until they’re 90 or their whole life,” Arthur reflected poignantly.

Anthony’s brother, Nicholas, provided additional context regarding his brother’s intentions for the day of the incident. He remarked that Anthony had set out during daylight hours, hoping to witness the sunset from the fire lookout. Tragically, the family believes the attack occurred as he was making his way back down the trail. Arthur speculated that his son might have tried to use bear spray in a desperate attempt to fend off the animal before being attacked.

Following the discovery of some personal items belonging to Anthony, including a can of bear spray, search teams were able to locate his body. The park has since closed the Mount Brown Trail as staff conduct evaluations to gauge wildlife behaviour and determine appropriate next steps for ensuring visitor safety.

This incident marks the first fatal bear attack in Glacier National Park since 1998, when a similar tragedy occurred in the Two Medicine Valley. More recent reports mention an injury sustained by a hiker at the hands of a bear in August 2022.

Glacier National Park officials continue to monitor the situation closely, emphasising the ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fatal encounter. They assured the public that park safety remains a top priority, while encouraging visitors to exercise caution in known bear habitats. The Pollio family’s loss resonates deeply, reminding many of the inherent risks that come with adventuring in the wild.