Off-duty NYPD detective attacked by black bear, police say

CORNWALL, New York -- A off-duty NYPD detective is recovering after he was attacked by a black bear at his Orange County home.

WABC says William Orange was in his garage late Sunday night working on his wife's car when he was attacked by a bear.

"I heard a growl and saw big teeth and something grabbed my shirt," says Orange. "I hit it with my forearm and just ran."

The bear's paw tore through the off-duty officers t-shirt and left four long scratches on his chest and stomach.

He was taken to a local hospital and given a tetanus shot and antibiotics. He is awaiting medical clearance to return to work.

"I guess it could have been a lot worse. It got me, but it's more of a graze," he says. "I'll be alright."

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation has set a trap in Orange's front yard, just in case the bear comes back again.

The bear will be relocated, if captured.