Los Angeles County Fire Department rescued a mother bear and two of her cubs from a water cistern on the Marshall Canyon Trail in La Verne, California, on Saturday, August 29, 2026. The trio had become trapped in the underground structure, prompting a rapid response from fire crews and wildlife experts who worked together to free the animals.
When the incident was reported, fire personnel arrived on the trail and assessed the situation. The water cistern, used for irrigation, had a narrow opening that prevented the bears from climbing out on their own. The rescue team employed equipment suited for confined spaces and carefully lifted the mother bear and two of her cubs to safety. A third cub managed to escape on its own before rescuers could reach it, leaving the mother and the remaining two cubs as the focus of the operation.
The coordinated effort highlighted the county’s preparedness for wildlife emergencies in urban‑adjacent natural areas. After being removed from the cistern, the bears were examined by wildlife specialists to ensure they were unharmed and could be released back into their habitat. The mother bear and her two rescued cubs were later released on the trail, where they were observed rejoining the surrounding environment.
Officials reminded the public that water cisterns and other man‑made structures can unintentionally trap wildlife, and they urged hikers and residents to report similar sightings promptly. The incident underscores the importance of collaboration between fire services and wildlife professionals in protecting both animals and public safety.
The successful rescue on the Marshall Canyon Trail demonstrates the ongoing commitment of Los Angeles County agencies to respond swiftly to unexpected wildlife encounters in the region's open spaces.