Bear Enters Gatlinburg Tea Shop, Rummages Through Merchandise During Couple's Anniversary Trip
A couple celebrating their seventh anniversary in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, experienced an unexpected encounter when a black bear entered 'The Spice & Tea Exchange' shop. Victoria Puyol and Joshua Card were inside the store when the bear walked in, prompting Card to begin recording. The bear, described as curious rather than aggressive, proceeded to rummage through the shop's inventory, showing particular interest in a sweet-tea blend and tea diffusers. Despite an employee from a neighboring store sounding an air horn, the bear remained largely unfazed. The couple, initially advised to back away, were directed by the store clerk to an emergency exit behind the register. The encounter lasted approximately 10 to 15 minutes before the bear eventually left the premises. Shop employees later informed the couple that the bear was a repeat visitor, having previously entered the store and taken sugar earlier in the week.