A woman recently saved her husband’s life by using bear spray to fend off two grizzly bears during a deadly encounter in British Columbia. The incident occurred on July 26 when the couple, riding e-bikes along a trail near the Kootenay River, was suddenly attacked by the bears. Authorities confirmed that the woman’s decisive use of bear spray successfully repelled the animals, though the husband sustained serious injuries and was hospitalized for surgery. The couple’s preparedness, including having accessible bear spray and proper knowledge of its use, was highlighted by local conservation officers as a key factor in their survival.
According to the British Columbia Conservation Officer Service, the bears attacked after being surprised by the couple’s presence on the trail. The woman told investigators she heard her husband yell before seeing a bear charge toward her. In response, she immediately deployed the bear spray, successfully driving both bears away. The man suffered serious injuries and was transported by emergency responders to a hospital, where he underwent surgery and is expected to make a full recovery.
Local authorities praised the couple’s quick thinking and recommended that anyone visiting bear country should take similar precautions. Conservation Officer Dave Webster, in a Facebook post, noted that the couple had bear spray readily available and knew how to use it, emphasizing the importance of such preparedness. Following the attack, officers interviewed the victims, examined the scene, and consulted with a carnivore expert. The expert concluded that the bears were likely acting in self-defense and were caught off guard in a dense section of the trail.
Wildlife officials determined that the bears’ behavior indicated a defensive response rather than an aggressive attack. There were no indications that the bears had been tracking or hunting the couple, and no recent signs of aggression had been reported in the area. As a result, authorities decided not to pursue or relocate the bears. Instead, they focused on ensuring public safety by closing three main trails and setting traps, though no animals were captured. A follow-up search the next day also yielded no sightings.
Officials emphasized that bear spray is a proven, effective deterrent against bear attacks and should be considered essential safety equipment when traveling in wildlife areas. The British Columbia Conservation Officer Service shared this message in a resource guide, highlighting its importance for adventurers and hikers. The incident has also prompted discussions about the need for increased awareness and preparedness among outdoor enthusiasts, particularly in regions where human-bear encounters are becoming more frequent.