For seven months, a 500-pound black bear nicknamed “Hank the Tank” has terrorized Lake Tahoe. He’s broken into at least 33 homes since July, including one this Friday, prompting hundreds of 911 calls and “extensive property damage,” according to police.
Something needs to be done about Hank, that’s for sure. He has lost all fear of humans, Fish and Wildlife personnel say. That not only makes him a menace to property, but a public safety threat.
Hank has managed to evade authorities so far. But when they catch him, he may be euthanized. The thought has upset some residents who describe him as a “friendly” pizza lover, who might just be too big (and hungry) for his own good.
The Bear League wants Hank placed in a sanctuary. Authorities say that would be difficult if not impossible to do.
He may be brash and he’s definitely chonky, but he’s also pretty cute. Let’s hope this ends well for Lake Tahoe residents – and Hank too.
UPDATE: Hank was framed! On Thursday, wildlife officials announced new DNA evidence shows Hank was not responsible for all of the raids. At least two other bears are now believed to have caused some of the damage. Now that he's been exonnerated by DNA, Hank's life will be spared.