DNR says Bloomington police acted appropriately in cougar shooting

ST. PAUL (AP) -- Bloomington police officers appropriately shot and killed a cougar seen crouching and snarling near a popular hiking path last Friday, officials with the Department of Natural Resources have concluded.

"The cougar showed no fear and refused to leave the area," said Bill Bernhjelm, DNR enforcement division director.

He said the unusual behavior for a wild cougar heightened a concern for public safety because the cat was near homes and walking paths.