Hi, my name is Ken Johnson and I’m asking for help because I’m in a situation I never imagined. A 500-pound bear has been living underneath my home in Altadena for over a month and it has caused tens of thousands of dollars in damage.

Right after surviving the Eaton fire, I lost my job, and shortly after that the bear began tearing into the structure of my home. I have video footage of it twisting gas pipes, which created an extremely dangerous situation and forced me to shut off my utilities just to stay safe.

I’ve reached out for help, but the state has declined to get involved, leaving me fully responsible for the cost of removal. Professional traps, safety measures, and repairs are incredibly expensive, and I’m being forced to pay for all of it myself while unemployed.

I’m asking for help to cover the cost of removing the bear, repairing the damage, and making my home safe and livable again. Any donation or share would mean the world to me during this incredibly stressful time. Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for any support you can offer.