Driver hits bear trying to cross I-40 in Knoxville, police say

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) - The Knoxville Police Department said a bear was struck by a vehicle on I-40 Friday morning while trying to cross the interstate.

The crash happened around 8:30 a.m. in the westbound lanes near Chilhowee Drive, according to Knoxville police.

One westbound lane was temporarily blocked following the crash. Traffic reopened at 8:30 a.m.

A later update from the department confirmed the bear had died.

The vehicle involved had minor damage, according to KPD.