COLLIER COUNTY, Fla. — The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is investigating what it says appears to have been a bear attack that left a man and dog dead.

It happened in the early morning hours on Monday near State Road 29 and U.S. 41 near Jerome, south of the Big Cypress Wildlife Management area in Collier County, according to FWC.

The man has been identified as 89-year-old Robert Markel, a Jerome resident. 

The bear could still be in the area, FWC officials said.

FWC officials also said they secured the area with several traps and cameras Monday night.

"Out of an abundance of caution, we urge residents and visitors to remain vigilant, and avoid the area. Do not approach or attempt to track wildlife," an FWC news release stated.

While this investigation continues, the agency is set to decide later this month if the state should hold a regulated bear hunt.

Florida’s black bears, which were once threatened, have increasingly wandered into neighborhoods and private property in recent years, especially in more rural areas of north and central Florida.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.