Bear found scavenging on the remains of a dead man in the Great Smoky Mountains

[billhouk]

... bear spray is highly effective when used properly ... The choice is yours - spend the time and energy to thoroughly research the subject to become informed and be safe, or not.

The NPS page on proper use of bear spray and links on bear safety. https://www.nps.gov/yell/learn/nature/bearspray.htm

It is very sad for someone to loose their life. Even the best plans and contingencies can fail in the extreme cases.