A massive, 525-pound adult male bear was hiding there following the deadly 14,000-acre blaze, and preventing utility workers from restoring the home’s power. During fires, animals fleeing the flames often wander into densely human-populated areas.

Wildlife officials rescued a 525-pound bear found hiding underneath a home that was evacuated during the Eaton Fire.

After assessing the crawl space and size of the bear, wildlife officials said they determined tranquilizing the bear was not an option.

The Eaton Fire in Southern California forced evacuations in Altadena, and when residents returned, one family discovered a 525-pound bear had taken refuge beneath their home.

A California man returned to his Altadena home after the Eaton Fire and discovered a 525-pound bear had taken up residence in his crawlspace.