Delaware State Forest Areas Closed as Eric Frein Manhunt Continues

Several Delaware State Forest areas in Northeastern Pennsylvania have been closed as officials continue to search for Eric Frein, the suspect in last month's deadly ambush at a state police barracks.

The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources is closing sections of the Delaware State Forest to hunters and others traveling on foot in the woodlands. Earlier Wednesday, the Pennsylvania Game Commission issued an executive order to temporarily close game lands and suspend hunting and trapping seasons within seven northeastern Pennsylvania townships.

The Pennsylvania Game Commission issued the ban a day after state police revealed two pipe bombs were found in the woods where 31-year-old Eric Frein is believed to be hiding.

"These findings posed new justification for this serious and wide-sweeping decision," said DCNR Secretary Ellen Ferretti. "With archery season rapidly approaching this Saturday, and fall foliage viewing in that area moving into high gear, we ask the patience and understanding of all who enjoy the Delaware Forest."

Hunting and trapping is prohibited until further notice on all public and private lands in Blooming Grove, Porter, Lehman and Greene townships in Pike County and Barrett, Price and Paradise townships in Monroe County.

State game lands in the seven townships are closed to the public altogether. Portions of state game lands 180, 183 and 221 are impacted.

"Safety of state forestland visitors is paramount as the search continues for the fugitive wanted in the shooting death of a state police trooper," said Ferretti. "This is a necessary inconvenience to many but it is designed to aid investigators and protect all forest visitors, not just hunters."

All public-use roads will remain open to transit though Ferretti advised against walking within state forestlands in the designated townships.

"As the largest land owner in that area, it is a sound decision to follow recommendations of Pa. State Police and temporally close all forestland in an area designated by state police," Ferretti said.

Frein is wanted in the September 12 ambush shooting death of Pennsylvania State Police Cpl. Bryon Dickson II outside the state police barracks in Blooming Grove, Pike County. Trooper Alex Douglass was also wounded in the shooting.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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