TOCHIGI, Jun 09, 2026 –
A state of heightened alert remained in place in Utsunomiya, Tochigi Prefecture, on June ninth after a collection of bear sightings continued throughout town, with authorities warning that as many as two bears could also be shifting by means of residential neighborhoods. All 94 municipal elementary and junior excessive faculties remained closed for a second day as officers looked for the animals.
More than 60 bear sightings have been reported throughout Utsunomiya since June sixth, and bears have been noticed at 5 separate areas within the metropolis from the early hours of June ninth.
Footage recorded at round 4 a.m. within the Joto district confirmed a bear crossing the parking zone of a retailer earlier than disappearing from view.
According to police, the most recent sighting occurred at round 6 a.m. in a residential space of Hiramatsuhoncho, the place a bear measuring about one meter in size was seen. A separate witness additionally reported seeing a smaller bear close by.
Police mentioned the reviews counsel there could also be two bears roaming city areas of town.
Residents in affected neighborhoods stay on alert. In Hiramatsuhoncho, some owners have been seen protecting their window shutters tightly closed as a precaution amid considerations that the animals may nonetheless be close by.
The whereabouts of the bears stay unknown, and authorities are persevering with search and patrol operations whereas urging residents to train warning.
Previously: Bear Spotted Running Through Central Utsunomiya Shopping District
Source: TBS