Franklin, NC: Black Bear Spotted in Broad Daylight with a Waffle Iron, Community Stunned

Franklin, NC (June 4, 2024) — In a scene straight out of a cartoon, a black bear was spotted casually crossing Main Street in Franklin, NC, clutching none other than a waffle iron. The audacious act occurred around 10:30 AM, leaving locals both baffled and amused.

Eyewitnesses report that the bear strolled out of the nearby forest, sauntered into Sunset and reappeared moments later with the waffle iron gripped in its paws. “It was like he knew exactly what he wanted,” said local resident Timmy Jenkins, who captured the moment on his smartphone. “He didn’t even wait for syrup!”

The bear’s nonchalant exit from the diner and leisurely stroll across the road had onlookers in stitches. “I thought I was dreaming,” said Sally Higgins, owner of the neighboring diner. “Who knew bears were such waffle enthusiasts?”

The Franklin Police Department released a statement advising residents to “lock up their breakfast appliances.” “The bear remains at large, and while it seems to prefer waffles, it might develop a taste for toasters or blenders,” the statement warned.

While the community laughs, wildlife experts are slightly more serious. Dr. Margaret Stevens from the Appalachian Bear Rescue reminded residents that feeding bears can be harmful. “It’s all fun and games until a bear opens a food truck,” she added.

As Franklin buzzes with talk of the bear’s culinary caper, one thing’s for sure: this is a breakfast heist that will be remembered for years. And somewhere in the woods, a black bear might just be enjoying the fluffiest waffles in North Carolina, blissfully unaware of its internet fame.