Authorities believe a black bear attacked and killed a hiker in a northern New Jersey nature preserve.

West Milford police say five friends from Edison, New Jersey, were hiking in the Apshawa Preserve when they encountered the bear on Sunday. Police say the group became frightened and ran in different directions. They noticed one member was missing when they regrouped.

A search team located the body of 22-year-old Darsh Patel. Police say evidence indicated he had been attacked by a bear.

A bear at the scene was euthanized.

State wildlife officials are assisting with the investigation.

The Apshawa Preserve is a 576-acre natural area used for hiking and bird watching, located about 45 miles northwest of New York City.

(AP)