A bear became trapped inside a vehicle at a Manitou Springs residence, prompting a response from the Manitou Springs Police Department and leaving the vehicle with substantial damage.

The Manitou Springs Police Department responded to a local residence after a bear became trapped inside a vehicle. No one was injured during the incident, though the vehicle sustained significant damage as the bear attempted to escape.

Officials are reminding residents that bears are strong and unpredictable, particularly when they feel trapped or threatened. Bears have an extraordinary sense of smell, estimated to be more than 2,100 times stronger than a human's, and even small amounts of food, food wrappers, beverages, pet food, coolers, and other scented items can attract a bear.

The incident also serves as a reminder about the importance of removing potential bear attractants from vehicles. Officials say that when bears begin associating neighborhoods and vehicles with food, it can create dangerous situations for both people and wildlife.

Authorities issued several precautionary guidelines in the wake of the incident. Residents are encouraged to remove food, drinks, trash, coolers, pet food, and other scented items from vehicles; lock vehicle doors and completely close all windows; and never intentionally feed wildlife or leave attractants where bears can access them.

It remains unclear whether wildlife management authorities have been notified about the specific bear involved, and no further information has been released about the condition or disposition of the animal following the incident.