3 children, 1 adult injured in Bella Coola grizzly bear attack - The Ashcroft-Cache Creek Journal

A grizzly bear attack in Bella Coola has resulted in injuries to three children and one adult, according to the BC Conservation Officer Service (BCCOS). The incident took place around 1:35 p.m. on Thursday, November 20, near an area known as the Old Trail, close to 4 Mile. The victims were part of a school group that had stopped along a trail near the river when the bear suddenly came out from the forest and attacked them. Despite the severity of the attack, multiple teachers present were able to deter the bear using pepper spray and a "bear banger," a type of noise-making device, which helped prevent the situation from becoming even worse. BCCOS Inspector Kevin Van Damme shared an update via video on Friday, explaining that the four injured individuals—one adult and three children—were initially treated at Bella Coola Hospital before being transferred to Vancouver for further medical care. Conservation officers searched through the night and into the early morning hours to locate the bear, but their efforts were unsuccessful. Additional officers have since been dispatched to the area to assist in collecting evidence and analyzing the surroundings. Preliminary information suggests that the grizzly involved in the attack may have been previously injured, though the bear itself remains at large. The community has been deeply shaken by this unprecedented event. The BCCOS is working closely with the Nuxalk Nation, whose leadership expressed their concern and solidarity. Chief Samuel Schooner of the Nuxalk Nation described the attack as a significant trauma to the community, emphasizing that it occurred without any provocation. He praised the quick and brave response by the teachers and students, noting that their actions likely prevented a more tragic outcome. Authorities are currently advising residents to avoid the forested area and the river near 4 Mile. People are being urged to stay indoors until further notice to ensure their safety while investigations and search efforts continue. The Nuxalk Nation and BCCOS are committed to keeping the community informed and safe during this difficult time. Those with any information or sightings of the bear in Bella Coola are encouraged to report them to local authorities. The provincial government is scheduled to hold a press conference regarding the incident at 2 p.m. on November 21. Meanwhile, community members and officials alike are focused on supporting the victims and their families, hoping for their full and speedy recovery.