One of the two hunters who killed a young brown bear in full view of wildlife watchers, including several Alaska State Troopers, near the Sterling Highway this weekend has been fined for discharging a weapon near the highway. The incident has generated heated debate in Alaska.

Some say that the hunters should never have killed the bear in front of a photo-taking crowd of onlookers. Others say there's nothing wrong with hunters taking an animal in a public place.

"People have strong opinions on one side or the other," said Bruce Woods, spokesman for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The service is investigating the kill, which could carry up to a $150 fine.

The law in effect on that portion of the Sterling Highway prohibits discharging firearms within a quarter mile of the road due to its heavy use. But there are plenty of places in the state where wildlife watchers and hunters could cross paths, and hunters could legally shoot an animal as a crowd looked on.

For a longer account of the incident, check out this article in the Redoubt Reporter.

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