UNION TWP. — The Hunterdon County Democrat is investigating an unofficial report that yesterday a bear attacked a deer hunter, who shot the bear in self-defense on state land in Union Township.

According to the unconfirmed report, a young man was in a tree stand when the bear climbed the tree after him and was swiping at his leg with its claws. He killed the bear to end the attack.

Corroboration and details are being sought from the state Department of Environmental Protection, so stay with NJ.com for more on this alleged episode.