Teachers have been hailed as ‘true heroes’ after repelling a grizzly bear that attacked a school group on a trail in Bella Coola, British Columbia, leaving 11 people injured. The bear, which may have been previously injured, was reportedly chased away using pepper spray and a bear banger device. Officials are still searching for the animal, and victims are receiving medical treatment. The incident, which occurred on Thursday, highlights the growing threat of wildlife encounters in remote areas.
Eleven people were injured in the attack, including students in the fourth and fifth grade, according to CBC News. Two were in critical condition, two in serious condition, and the other seven were treated at the scene. The victims were taken to Bella Coola Hospital and are being transferred to Vancouver for further care. Officials were still searching on Friday for the bear, which they believe may have been previously injured. The incident has raised concerns about the safety of students on outdoor school trips, prompting calls for improved safety measures and wildlife awareness programs.
Tamara Davidson, British Columbia’s minister of environment and parks, called the teachers who fought off the bear ‘true heroes,’ adding that they were well-prepared. The incident has also sparked conversations about the management of wildlife in the region, with officials noting the need for continued collaboration with Indigenous communities like the Nuxalk Nation to ensure community awareness and shared safety information.
The State Department has warned Americans in Japan about deadly bear attacks following a series of incidents since April, urging travelers to exercise caution. The incident in Bella Coola has further heightened awareness about the risks associated with bear encounters in wilderness areas, with experts emphasizing the importance of education and preparedness for visitors and residents alike.