A motorcyclist in Marion County killed a black bear on Sunday.

The crash happened in the afternoon, according to a release from the sheriff's office. The bear was in the middle of Breitenbush Road near mile post 18.5 when the motorcyclist slammed into it.

The motorcyclist was flown to a hospital for treatment. Marion County sheriff's deputies declined to release his name or any photos. The release said police did not know how badly he was injured.

Forest Service officials took care of the bear's body, the release said.

Police urged people to be careful while driving in rural areas and while camping or hiking.

-- Lynne Terry