Rhode Island woman refuses to give bear ride in her car

NARRAGANSETT, RI (WGME) -- A Rhode Island woman survived a very close encounter with a hitchhiking bear Tuesday afternoon.

The Narragansett, R.I. Animal Control Office says the incident happened near Camp Varnum.

Officials say the bear opened the woman's car door, but she was able to secure it closed from the inside.

They add that while bears are undoubtedly "cool," it's best to find a safe place away from them as quickly as possible.