Tenn. Candy Store Ransacked by Hungry ‘Persistent’ Bear for the Fourth Time

Bears in Tennessee clearly have a taste for sweets — and one in Gatlinburg keeps coming back for more.

Glades Homemade Candies said in a Jan. 9 Facebook post that a bear broke into the shop for the fourth time. “A bear has ravaged our beloved candy shop for the fourth time,” the business wrote, adding, “Let us join hands in prayer that it is safely captured.”

The store, which has served the area for 35 years, called the repeat break-ins an urgent problem. “This persistent bear is a challenge we urgently need to overcome,” the post said, while thanking supporters for their concern and prayers.

The damage from the latest incident included a shattered glass door and a messy scene inside, with baking trays and sweets scattered around the floor.

In an update the next day, the shop thanked everyone who reached out and said it has tried multiple steps to keep the bear out — including securing doors, adding extra security measures, and using bear-proof dumpsters. The store also said it reported the situation to the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA).

In the comments on the original post, the business said TWRA placed electric mats in front of the store for three days, but the bear returned soon after they were removed. “We had boarded the door too,” the shop wrote.

TWRA said it is aware of the situation and has been working with the business to reduce property damage and address safety concerns. The agency said it uses several tools to manage human-bear conflicts, including an equipment loaner program that provides devices such as electric “unwelcome mats.” TWRA noted that the equipment is in high demand and can’t always remain in place for long periods.

According to TWRA, the agency receives more than 1,000 calls each year related to human-bear conflicts. While black bears generally avoid people, TWRA said repeated access to human food can lead to escalating problems: bears’ natural strength — including claws and teeth — can result in significant property damage and potentially create safety risks.

The agency added that the candy shop “did nothing wrong,” but may be paying the price for other people not following best practices to reduce attractants.

Black bears are commonly seen in Tennessee in spring and summer. In winter, they typically “den,” though TWRA notes that when bears emerge, natural food can be scarce — and the scent of human food can draw them in.

TWRA has long advised treating black bears as wild animals and taking precautions to prevent encounters, including avoiding leaving food or garbage where bears can access it.