Bear attack that seriously injured 4 in Bella Coola still a ‘dangerous situation’ - The Free Press

Efforts to capture the bears involved in a serious attack in Bella Coola have been ongoing since the incident occurred on Thursday, November 20. The attack, which happened around 1:35 p.m. during a school field trip, left three children and one adult seriously injured, requiring hospitalization. The victims were part of a group of students and teachers who had stopped near a river along a trail when a grizzly bear suddenly appeared from the forest. Following witness accounts and initial investigations, the British Columbia Conservation Officer Service (BCCOS) confirmed that two additional grizzly bears were present in the vicinity during the attack, making the situation more complex and dangerous. On Saturday, November 22, additional officers from BCCOS arrived at the remote northern British Columbia community to assist in the ongoing search and investigation. The officers focused on collecting forensic evidence that could help identify and track the bears involved. Authorities have strongly urged locals and visitors to avoid the 4 Mile area, warning that the situation remains volatile and dangerous. Insp. Kevin Van Damme of the BCCOS emphasized the importance of giving officers space to do their work safely, stating that public attempts to find the bears could jeopardize both residents and enforcement personnel. The BCCOS has also been working closely with the Nuxalk Nation, which serves the local Indigenous community. The Nuxalk Nation has reminded people that crisis and trauma support services are available through their phone lines to help those affected by the distressing event. Both the conservation officers and the Nuxalk Nation are collaborating to ensure that community members are kept informed about safety precautions and investigative updates. Insp. Van Damme expressed sympathy for the victims and their families, wishing them a full and speedy recovery while acknowledging the emotional toll the incident has taken on the community. The attack has heightened concerns about wildlife encounters in the area, particularly involving grizzly bears. The presence of multiple bears complicates response efforts and raises fears about further incidents. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, employing forensic and wildlife tracking techniques in an attempt to safely capture the animals and prevent additional harm. The BCCOS urges the public to respect the danger and cooperate fully by steering clear of the designated zones. As investigations proceed, the community remains on edge, balancing the need for safety with the trauma of the attack. The combined efforts of the conservation officers and the Nuxalk Nation aim to provide both practical safety measures and emotional support. Meanwhile, the victims' conditions and recovery progress remain a focal point, as families and officials await further updates. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks posed by wildlife in remote regions and the importance of preparedness and careful management in such encounters.