A beloved grizzly bear was struck and killed by a vehicle in Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming, officials said.

The famous grizzly bear – known simply as ‘Grizzly Bear 399’ because of the identification tag on her ear – was fatally struck by a vehicle Tuesday evening on Highway 26/89 in Snake River Canyon, just south of Jackson, Wyoming. , and her identity was confirmed through ear tags and a microchip, according to a statement from the National Park Service Wednesday.

“Grizzly bear 399 was carrying a yearling cub, whose whereabouts are currently unknown,” park officials said. “At this time there is no indication that the yearling was involved in the incident, but the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is monitoring the area.”

Vehicle collisions with wildlife, including grizzly bears, are not uncommon. From 2009 to 2023, there have been 49 grizzly bear deaths due to vehicle collisions in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem and the National Park Service is now working with state and local agencies to gather more information about this latest incident.

“People from all over the world have been following grizzly bear 399 for decades. At age 28, she was the oldest known breeding female grizzly bear in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem,” said Hilary Cooley, Grizzly Bear Recovery Coordinator for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

“Wildlife collisions and conflicts are unfortunate. We are grateful the driver is doing well and understand the community is saddened to hear of the death of grizzly bear 399,” said Angi Bruce, director of the Wyoming Game and Fish Department.

In 2024, including this incident, there have been two grizzly bear deaths due to vehicle strikes in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, with the average number of grizzly bear deaths in the region due to vehicle collisions during 2009-2023 at 3.3 deaths per years. authorities said.

“The grizzly bear is an iconic species that makes the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem so special. Grizzly bear 399 has perhaps been the most prominent ambassador for the species. She inspired conservation efforts by countless visitors around the world and will be missed,” said Grand Teton National Park Superintendent Chip Jenkins.

No additional information is available at this time and the investigation into the incident is ongoing.