By Richard C. Dujardin
BURRILLVILLE, R.I. -- Police here and in neighboring North Smithfield are warning residents to be on the lookout for a large black bear that has been seen walking through several back yards Friday night.
Burrillville police said the first sighting came in the area of Tarkiln Road around 6:39 p.m., followed by sightings on Smith Hill Road. They said the bear was then spotted on Douglas Pike and going onto Pound Hill Road, Old Oxford Road and Stoney Drive in North Smithfield.
Residents were being urged to use caution during outdoor events and not to try to feed the bear. To report sightings, residents are asked to call the state Department of Environmental Management at (401) 222-3070.