MARIETTA — A black bear was seen wandering in and around the area of Laurel Park and surrounding neighborhoods in Marietta this morning.

According to the Marietta Police Department, the Department of Natural Resources has been contacted to assist with the safe relocation if necessary.

Officials say the bear will likely continue West and return to the woods in the National park nearby. Black bears are native to Georgia.

The police department says it is monitoring the situation while waiting for the Department of Natural Resources and urges residents to stay inside for the next few hours.

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Motorists who encounter the bear are asked to stay inside their vehicles.