The quiet of a North Lake Tahoe morning shattered when Laurel-Rose Von Hoffmann-Curzi found herself in a fight for survival against an unexpected intruder. While battling Stage 4 lymphoma and isolating at her family’s second home, the Orinda resident was suddenly confronted by a bear that had brazenly entered her kitchen around 6 a.m.

A Terrifying Moment

Von Hoffmann-Curzi’s account is a chilling reminder of the increasingly bold wildlife in Tahoe’s residential areas. “He must have come straight at me,” she recalled, describing how the bear attacked without warning. Her body bore the marks of the encounter, puncture wounds, cuts, and a significant laceration on her cheek that required stitches.

The Changing Bear Landscape

This isn’t just an isolated incident. Tahoe’s bear population has been growing more comfortable around humans, especially following recent fire evacuations like the Caldor Fire. As El Dorado County sheriff’s Sgt. Simon Brown noted, “The delicate balance between humans and bears has been upset”. Climate changes and abundant human-generated food sources mean bears are increasingly active, often skipping traditional hibernation periods.

Survival and Warning

Despite the traumatic experience, Von Hoffmann-Curzi’s primary goal is to warn others. “This bear’s been in the neighborhood. He’s not afraid of people,” she emphasized. Her story underscores critical advice from wildlife experts: secure food waste, avoid leaving pet food outdoors, and remain vigilant in bear country.

While her ordeal could have ended tragically, Von Hoffmann-Curzi’s resilience shines through, a testament to the unexpected challenges faced by Tahoe residents and visitors alike. Her message is clear: respect wildlife, stay alert, and never underestimate a determined bear.