A Catholic deacon was mauled to death in a suspected bear attack after leaving his father a touching voicemail as he embarked on an ill-fated hike to watch the sunset. Anthony Pollio, 33, was found dead at Montana's Glacier National Park about two and a half miles into a hike along the Mt. Brown Trail on May 6. His body lay roughly 50 feet off the beaten path and sustained injuries consistent with a bear attack, according to the park’s news release. A formal autopsy has not yet been completed.
Family Confirms Tragic Death
Anthony’s family independently confirmed his gruesome demise to outlets in the Florida native’s community. Arthur Pollio, Anthony’s father, told the Sun Sentinel that his “fearless” son left him a voicemail while on the hike. He recounted how Anthony sounded out of breath while offering a play-by-play of his day, ending with a “Love you.” Pollio said Anthony had done this consistently throughout his two-week road trip with a friend, who parted ways when they reached Montana.
Experienced Hunter Caught Off Guard
The grieving father explained that Anthony was an experienced hunter who was likely caught off guard by a particularly aggressive bear. When Anthony wasn’t clearing trails at parks across the country, he could be found cruising around Florida or preaching at his local Catholic church, Arthur said. Anthony, a lifelong Floridian, graduated from the University of Central Florida with a degree in hospitality.
Final Journey Through National Parks
Before his final excursion in Montana, Anthony hiked through the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone and the connected Grand Teton National Park, Starved Rock State Park, and the Mount Rushmore National Memorial, his father said. “His life experiences in 33 years — some people don’t get to do ’til they’re 90 or their whole life,” Arthur told the outlet. The park is still investigating Anthony’s death.
