Based on coverage from CBC and CTV.
Grizzly Bear Attack in Bella Coola: What We Know
In a shocking incident last Thursday, a school group in Bella Coola, British Columbia, found themselves in a terrifying encounter with a grizzly bear family. The B.C. Conservation Officer Service (BCCOS) suspects a mother bear and her two cubs were involved in the attack that left two people critically injured and two others seriously hurt. The group, consisting of about 20 students and school staff, was having lunch along a trail when the bears struck.
The BCCOS has been actively working to locate and safely trap the bears involved. Sgt. Jeff Tyre explained that traps and snares have been set up in the 4 Mile subdivision area, but so far, no bears have been captured. An RCMP helicopter equipped with thermal imaging is assisting in the search, which continues despite challenging weather conditions.
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Community Response and Heroic Acts
The community of Bella Coola has shown remarkable resilience in the face of this tragedy. Chief Samuel Schooner of the Nuxalk Nation highlighted the bravery displayed during the attack, particularly by the teachers who risked their lives to protect the students. "They chose to lay their lives on the line," Schooner said, praising their heroic actions.
Stories of courage have emerged, including that of a young student who ran back into danger to help classmates. Chief Schooner emphasized the importance of allowing the victims to share their experiences in their own time, acknowledging the long road to recovery ahead for those injured.
Ongoing Investigation and Safety Measures
The BCCOS, along with eight field conservation officers and a First Nations liaison officer, is conducting a thorough investigation. They are collecting forensic evidence to identify the bears involved and have stated that any bears not part of the incident will be relocated. Decisions regarding the fate of the bears, if captured, will be made in consultation with wildlife veterinarians.
Residents have been urged to avoid the area and refrain from searching for the bears themselves due to the potential danger. BCCOS Insp. Kevin Van Damme stressed the importance of respecting the situation and allowing professionals to handle it.
The incident has sparked discussions about wildlife management in the region. While some call for a review of the ban on grizzly hunting, others, like Chief Schooner, remind us of the long-standing harmonious relationship between humans and wildlife in the area. "For thousands of years, we’ve lived side-by-side in harmony," he noted, acknowledging that while most wildlife interactions are peaceful, there are rare exceptions.
As the community of Bella Coola navigates the aftermath of this incident, the focus remains on ensuring safety and understanding the circumstances that led to this rare and unfortunate event.
