Massive Black Bear Moves Into Altadena Homeowner’s Crawlspace

An Altadena man says he’s been sharing his home with a huge, unexpected guest — a 500-pound black bear that has taken up residence beneath his house. Homeowner Ken Johnson discovered the new “roommate” after installing cameras near a crawlspace where items had been mysteriously knocked over.

“It was really big. I’ve seen him before, but he was going through the trash, and then the next morning, he’s coming out from underneath my house,” Johnson said. Since then, he says the bear has been slipping in and out of the space every day “like it owns the place.”

Close Call Caught on Camera

Things escalated on Friday when Johnson went outside to replace camera batteries.“I just glanced at the hole from standing up and [heard] a growl and a hiss, and I just ran,” he said.

KTLA’s Jillian Smukler accompanied Johnson to check the crawlspace that same day. As they approached, the bear appeared again, leading to frantic moments captured on video. Johnson said it’s unnerving knowing a massive wild animal is living just feet below him.

“It looks like a monster because the eyes are close together and then this big, wide head, and I wasn’t even sure what I was looking at,” he said.

Awaiting Help as Holidays Approach

Authorities advised Johnson to stay inside for safety, but he says he wants the animal removed quickly. When asked if he planned to charge rent, he joked, “I might,” but added he’s hoping California Fish and Wildlife will step in. So far, he’s only reached a holiday closure recording.

“I don’t need a bear for Christmas. I want to get rid of the bear for Christmas,” he said.