Authorities in Montana are investigating the death of 33-year-old Catholic deacon Anthony Pollio, whose body was discovered near a hiking trail in Glacier National Park after officials said his injuries were “consistent with a bear encounter.” The case drew national attention after reports emerged that Pollio had left a heartfelt voicemail for his father shortly before the fatal incident, ending the message with the words, “Love you, Dad.”
Pollio, a Florida native and church deacon, had been visiting several national parks during a cross-country road trip before disappearing during a solo hike near the Mount Brown Trail. Search crews later located his body roughly 50 feet off the trail in a densely wooded area.
Family members described Pollio as an experienced outdoorsman, hunter, and deeply spiritual individual who loved nature, adventure, and his faith community. Investigators continue examining the circumstances surrounding the suspected bear encounter.
Timeline of the Hiking Incident
Officials said Pollio was hiking on the Mount Brown Trail, which leads toward the Mount Brown Fire Lookout, when he vanished.
Search-and-rescue teams later found his remains in a wooded section containing heavy downed timber. Authorities said evidence currently points to what appears to have been a “surprise encounter” with a bear, though the investigation remains ongoing.
Officials have not publicly confirmed the species involved. Glacier National Park is home to both black and grizzly bears.
Trail Closure After Discovery
Following the discovery, portions of the trail were temporarily closed while park officials evaluated wildlife activity and processed the scene.
National Park Service officials emphasized that bear encounters remain relatively rare despite the large predator populations throughout the region.
Final Voicemail Resonates With Family
One of the most emotional elements of the case involves the voicemail Pollio left for his father shortly before the attack.
According to interviews with his father, Arthur Pollio, Anthony called while hiking and described the rugged mountain terrain before ending the message with a brief expression of affection.
Family members said Pollio frequently updated his father throughout the road trip and regularly ended calls by saying he loved him.
His father later told reporters that Anthony sounded winded while hiking uphill but otherwise calm and excited about the experience.
Family Says Encounter Appeared Sudden
Relatives believe the bear encounter happened unexpectedly while Pollio was descending from the lookout area. Investigators recovered personal belongings and bear spray near the scene.
Family members emphasized that Pollio was familiar with wildlife safety precautions and had years of outdoor experience.
A Rare but Serious Risk
Glacier National Park remains one of North America’s most recognized grizzly bear habitats. Park officials routinely advise hikers to carry bear spray, make noise while hiking, and stay alert in densely wooded terrain.
According to park officials, this marks the first fatal bear incident in the park since 1998.
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