Relatives of a New Mexico man who died after being attacked by a bear inside his home have chosen to remember his resilience and community spirit rather than focus on the rare and violent circumstances of his death. Benjamin Halona, 67, was fatally mauled by a bear on August 20 while recovering from a severe seizure that had left him with limited mobility.

Halona lived in the Navajo Nation community of Crystal, New Mexico. According to his sister, Gloria Halona, and niece, Samantha Vander, he had recently become a widower after the death of his wife, Bernadine, six months earlier. Despite health challenges that required him to use a walker and a wheelchair, family members recall him as a strong and happy individual who maintained a quiet dignity throughout.

On the day of the attack, Halona remained at home while his stepson, Casey, went to the post office. After hearing Benjamin lock the front door, Casey left the house. However, upon returning, he found the door ajar and a bear inside the residence. Acting quickly, Casey locked himself in his bedroom, barricading the door with furniture, and hid in a crawlspace while calling for emergency assistance. He also contacted Gloria Halona and Samantha Vander, who then rushed to the scene.

The two arrived to find the bear outside the home. Following Gloria’s instructions, Samantha honked her car horn to drive the animal away, after which a police officer on site shot the bear. When Gloria and Samantha entered the house, they described the scene as “horrific,” with Benjamin Halona having sustained fatal injuries.

Family members emphasized their desire to honor Halona’s life and achievements, including a career in firefighting and his enthusiasm for making and selling tamales, rather than focusing solely on the tragic nature of his death. Gloria Halona noted that while Benjamin did not possess many material things, he was content and exhibited remarkable strength in facing the health and personal hardships he encountered.

Authorities responded promptly to the incident, with local law enforcement addressing the immediate threat posed by the bear. The attack is a rare but grim reminder of human-wildlife conflicts occurring in some rural and tribal communities in New Mexico.