Bear Strolls Into Alaska Shopping Mall, Steals Peach and Leaves

ANCHORAGE, Alaska (AP) — An unexpected shopper caused a commotion at a shopping mall in Alaska when a black bear wandered through the entrance, grabbed a piece of fruit and then casually made its exit.

The bear entered a mall at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson after triggering the building’s automatic doors, surprising both customers and employees.

Witnesses said the animal wandered through the complex and even ventured into a barber shop, sending workers scrambling for safety.

After helping itself to a peach, the bear continued its brief visit before leaving behind one final calling card: a mess on the floor.

Wildlife officers responded to the scene and successfully guided the animal away from the mall and back into a nearby wooded area without injuries to people or the bear.

The unusual encounter quickly became the talk of the community, with witnesses describing disbelief as the bear casually browsed the mall as though it were any other customer.

While Alaska residents are accustomed to seeing wildlife, bears strolling through shopping centers remain a rare sight, even in a state known for close encounters with nature.

In the end, the bear’s shopping trip was short, inexpensive and apparently successful. The only item reported missing was a single peach.