How A Black Bear Named Todd Captivated Southern Minnesota

A Minnesota black bear that captured the imaginations of Southern Minnesota has died. According to some social media posts from this weekend, the viral sensation known as Todd the bear was found alongside I-90. The bear had made headlines after roaming around Austin, Minnesota, over the last few days, including in Todd Park, where the bear got its name.

'Viral' Bear In Southern Minnesota

Black bear sightings in Minnesota have become more common, with people now spotting the creatures outside of their normal ranges, including as far south as Owatonna, Faribault, Kenyon, and Austin.

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Todd the bear was one of those black bears that were spotted roaming around Austin starting at the end of May.

According to the Austin Police Department, the bear spent much of Sunday, May 31, in Todd Park, which led residents and police to start calling him "Todd." The bear was later spotted moving through other parts of town, including near a tire center, and authorities advised people to give him space and let him continue on his way.

Local Police Department Shared The Sad News

The Austin police department took to social media Sunday morning to let residents know that Todd was killed sometime Saturday night into Sunday morning on I-90 in neighboring Freeborn County.

"We are aware of a bear struck on I-90 in Freeborn County early this morning. Given the photos and location, we are sad to relay that it appears to have been Todd. Presumably he was trying to make his way back up North. Todd became an overnight sensation and made the internet and communities smile with his “AI-Appearances” from businesses in Austin all the way to Mason City Iowa. There were even special Todd donuts at a local establishment.

Todd’s legacy in Austin will definitely be remembered. There are community members out there already trying to figure out memorial ideas. You all have such big hearts. To Todd, we know you are in a place now with all you can eat fish and honey, and trees to sleep in! Thank you for bringing this community closer in your short journey."

You can share sightings of black bears outside their normal range using the Minnesota DNR website here.

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