A stretch of freeway near the mountains in the northern part of the San Fernando Valley has become something of a death trap for wild animals trying to cross the high-speed roadway in overnight darkness.
The latest victim was a 2-year-old bear that was killed in traffic in the same area where a mountain lion and two of her kittens were killed a few months ago by vehicles.
Officials urged drivers to be especially cautious right now as bears are coming out of hibernation.
Two vehicles struck and killed the bear Thursday morning on the southbound Ronald Reagan (118) Freeway in Porter Ranch.
The bear was reported dead about 3:30 a.m., according to the California Highway Patrol.
The animal was struck by a truck and then run over by a car whose driver called authorities to report colliding with an animal, according to the CHP and a report from the scene.
Andrew Hughan of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife told CBS2 the bear appeared to be about 2 years old.
Hughan warned motorists to use caution on roads near wildlife areas as many bears are emerging from winter hibernation.
–City News Service