Residents of Vicksburg were alerted this morning to the presence of a black bear in the downtown area. The bear was spotted in a tree outside the old courthouse, prompting local authorities to issue a safety advisory.

While the sighting may seem unusual, officials emphasize that the bear is a wild animal and should not be approached or fed under any circumstances. Residents are advised to secure their trash cans and remove any food containers or wrappers from their vehicles, as bears are drawn to accessible food sources due to their keen sense of smell.

For the safety of the community and pets, the Vicksburg Police Department urges everyone to avoid the area. The Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks (MDWFP) has been notified and recommends allowing the bear to leave the area on its own without human interaction.

Officers are patrolling the vicinity to inform pedestrians of the situation. Residents are encouraged to stay indoors if they are nearby and ensure their pets are secure.

“We appreciate your cooperation as we work together to keep our community safe,” said Chief Penny Jones.