UPDATE: A large bear has made itself at home in the crawlspace of an Altadena residence, leaving the homeowner and his cat in shock. The unusual encounter unfolded when homeowner Ken Johnson discovered the bear after noticing his property’s crawlspace screen damaged.
Just last night, Johnson installed a security camera to investigate strange happenings around his home. To his astonishment, he captured footage of the bear knocking over trash before emerging from the crawlspace. “It was just an average week until my camera went off,” Johnson recounted. “There he was, crawling out from under the crawlspace.”
This startling revelation took place on November 28, 2025, and has been a source of both humor and concern for the resident. Johnson noted, “I thought, ‘There’s no way a bear could fit,’ but there he was!” The bear, a frequent visitor to the neighborhood, was last seen by Johnson about three months ago, but this time, it seems to have claimed a new territory.
The situation escalated when, while checking the camera, Johnson was met with a terrifying growl from the bear. “It was the most amazing roar you’ve ever heard—like a lion with a hiss on top of it,” he said, describing his immediate panic. Both Johnson and his beloved cat, Boo, now find themselves living in close quarters with the wild animal. “It’s hilarious, but it’s also worrying having something so big and ferocious living right there,” he added.
Wildlife experts suggest various methods to deter bears from homes, such as installing electric fencing and sturdy grates, alongside using scent deterrents like ammonia. Johnson has been advised that as long as he remains indoors, he should be safe.
As this unusual story develops, local authorities emphasize the importance of safety, advising residents to stay vigilant. This incident raises awareness about wildlife interactions in residential areas and the potential risks involved.
Residents in Altadena are encouraged to share their experiences with local wildlife and remain informed about safety measures. The situation continues to capture the attention of the community and beyond, highlighting the ongoing interaction between humans and wildlife in suburban settings.
Stay tuned for further updates on this intriguing story.
