Canadian conservation officers have euthanized a black bear which they think ate the remains of a convicted murderer.

British Columbia Environment Minister Terry Lake said Monday the bear's description matched that of one seen guarding a cache that contained human remains.

Lake says the animal was put down because bears remember food sources.

Officials suspect the bear pulled the body of Rory Wagner, 54, from his car after he died on a remote logging road.

Wagner pleaded guilty to second-degree murder in 1994. He and two others were charged with a killing a man who they believed had sexually assaulted a family member. He served his prison time and was released.

Wagner was reported missing May 23. Police say his death was not suspicious. Hunters found the site last week.