The death of a mother bear by bullets near a national park in Italy, leaving her two cubs to fend for themselves, has sparked public outrage and condemnation from politicians and animal rights groups.

The bear was killed late Thursday on the outskirts of the town of San Benedetto dei Marchi, the Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise National Park said on Facebook today, also posting a photo that was widely circulated on social media.

The bear was spotted in a nearby town a few days ago with her two cubs, according to video. She was known as “Amarena” (black cherry) after the fruit she ate.

National Park president Luciano Samarone told La Repubblica newspaper that the bear had crossed a private fence but had no history of attacking people. “I find it hard to believe it (was killed) in legitimate defence,” he said, adding that he would wait for the result of investigations.

Green Party leader Angelo Bonelli said park rangers were searching for her cubs and there were fears they would survive.

The police have identified the suspect.

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It was not clear why the bear was shot, but bear hunting is illegal in Italy.

Animal rights group Lav called Amarena a “victim of the national climate of hatred” of wild animals, claiming it is fueled by politicians.

However, her death was commemorated by local and national authorities, including Environment Minister Gilberto Piqueto Fratin.