- Jan 7, 2002
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WEEDSPORT, N.Y. -- A woman lost part of her arm when she reached into the cage of two Chinese Himalayan bears.
Brooke Bessette, 22, was able to free herself after being grabbed by one of the bears Sunday, but suffered severe injuries to her lower arm, Cayuga County Sheriff Robert Outhouse said.
Her arm was amputated below the elbow. She was in good condition Monday at a Syracuse-area hospital.
The attack took place at a "private zoo," the Cayuga County sheriff's office said. Authorities were looking into possible trespassing charges.
Authorities did not say who owned the zoo.
The state Environmental Conservation Department also was investigating whether the owner of the bears holds the proper permits for the exotic animals, Outhouse said.
Copyright 2004 by The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Brooke Bessette, 22, was able to free herself after being grabbed by one of the bears Sunday, but suffered severe injuries to her lower arm, Cayuga County Sheriff Robert Outhouse said.
Her arm was amputated below the elbow. She was in good condition Monday at a Syracuse-area hospital.
The attack took place at a "private zoo," the Cayuga County sheriff's office said. Authorities were looking into possible trespassing charges.
Authorities did not say who owned the zoo.
The state Environmental Conservation Department also was investigating whether the owner of the bears holds the proper permits for the exotic animals, Outhouse said.
Copyright 2004 by The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.