MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Wisconsin wildlife officials are defending their decision to shoot a cornered bear in La Crosse.

The 300-pound black bear wandered into Myrick Park on June 27. A crowd followed it with video cameras until it climbed a tree.

Wildlife officials say the crowd ignored orders to disperse and the bear grew more agitated. When it looked like it was going to leave the tree, officers had to open fire because the animal threatened public safety.

Some in the crowd complained officials should have tranquilized it. But bear scientist Mike Gappa says it's tough to knock out a bear. Tranquilizers can take up to 15 minutes to work and could have driven the bear into a dangerous thrashing fit as it fought the drugs.