A Suffolk man died after a vehicle left Portsmouth Boulevard and struck trees during a multi-vehicle crash involving a black bear on Nov. 5.
Soranzo Harvin Jr., 41, was pronounced dead at the scene, according to a Nov. 6 Suffolk Police Department news release.
Emergency dispatchers began receiving reports of the crash in the 1900 block of Portsmouth Boulevard at approximately 10:45 p.m.
Black bear involved in multiple collisions
Police said a preliminary investigation found that a black bear was in the roadway and was struck by several vehicles.
During the incident, one vehicle traveled off the right side of the road, struck trees and came to rest partially submerged in water.
Harvin was the only occupant of that vehicle.
Police reported no other injuries from the initial crash.
The department has not released additional findings establishing the precise sequence of the collisions or whether any driver was at fault.
Road reopens as investigation continues
Portsmouth Boulevard was closed for several hours following the crash.
Police confirmed in their Nov. 6 statement that the roadway had reopened. The investigation remained active at the time of that announcement.
Black bears live throughout much of Virginia, including parts of the coastal region, according to the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources.
Although black bears are typically most active around dawn and dusk, the agency notes that they may be active at any time of day.
Suffolk Police are asking anyone with information about the crash to contact the department or the Suffolk Crime Line.
Tips can also be submitted online through the P3 Tips reporting service.
