Anthony Pollio, a 33-year-old Catholic deacon believed to have been killed in a bear attack at Glacier National Park, left an emotional voicemail for his father shortly before his death.
Pollio was found dead on May 6 near the Mt. Brown Trail with injuries consistent with a bear attack. His father, Arthur Pollio, said investigators believe Anthony encountered a grizzly bear and used all of his bear spray before the fatal attack.
Before his death, Anthony called and texted his father while hiking, telling him, “Dad, I’m hiking up a mountain. It’s wild out here,” before ending with, “I love you, dad.” It was the last message his father received.
Arthur described his son as fearless, experienced outdoorsman who loved hiking, hunting, and traveling across national parks. Anthony had recently visited places including Grand Canyon National Park, Yellowstone National Park, and Mount Rushmore National Memorial during a cross-country trip.
If confirmed, the incident would mark the first fatal bear attack in Glacier National Park since 1998. Authorities continue to investigate.