Conn. man, 82, charged with killing bear

WINDSOR, Conn., Jan. 4 (UPI) -- An elderly Connecticut man was arrested Wednesday afternoon for allegedly killing a black bear that damaged a bird feeder outside his home, authorities said.

Investigators with the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection said John G. Rocha, 82, of Windsor, is accused of shooting the 5- to 6-year-old bear, estimated at 250 pounds, with a .30-caliber rifle.

Police were called to Rocha's neighborhood after receiving reports of a bear and cub sighting.

The Energy and Environmental Protection investigators tranquilized a 110-pound cub they found nearby and transported it to a wildlife area.

Police said Rocha was released and is to appear in court Jan. 17.