Several bears spotted in Bonney Lake backyard; Fennel Creek Trail closed

BONNEY LAKE, Wash. -- A mother bear and at least two cubs were spotted in a Bonney Lake backyard early Wednesday.

Police say the family of bears was first spotted around 4 a.m. in the backyard of a home on 189th Ave. near Bonney Lake High School and Mountain View Middle School.

Authorities said wildlife officers have been notified. As a precaution, Fennel Creek Trail is closed because many students use it to get to school. Officers put up barricades and warning signs about the bears.

"Our officers responded to the area and got within 50 feet of the bears and they were not afraid of people," said Officer Daron Wolschleger of Bonney Lake Police. "The officers shined their flashlights on the bears and the bears didn't run away or anything -- they were just hanging out, so we are trying to educate parents and students if they see the bears, do not approach them."

Police say they've been in contact with the Sumner School District and they're notifying parents about the bears.

If you see the bears, don't approach them. Call 911.

From Bonney Lake Police Dept.