A bear that was spotted in a Millburn park had to be put down after becoming aggressive, responding authorities say.

The Essex County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene inside the Locust Grove picnic area.

Officials say that the bear became aggressive and ultimately had to be put down for safety reasons.

As a result of the incident, the Millburn Police Department warned the community of the sighting.

According to the Department of Environmental Protection’s Fish and Wildlife Activity report, the number of bear sightings has increased 82% since 2023. The report shows sightings and complaints reported to the DEP but doesn’t include incidents handled by police without DEP assistance.

The park entrance has since been blocked off for vehicular and pedestrian traffic.