Teachers fended off a grizzly bear that attacked a school group walking along a trail in British Columbia, Canada, on Thursday, officials confirmed. The group had stopped along a trail near the community when a grizzly bear emerged from the forest and attacked, according to Inspector Kevin Van Damme of British Columbia’s Conservation Officer Service. Teachers successfully repelled the bear using pepper spray and a bear banger, as the incident unfolded in a remote area, emphasizing the importance of preparedness for wildlife encounters.
The attack left eleven people injured, including students in the fourth and fifth grade, as reported by CBC News. Two of the victims were in critical condition, two in serious condition, and the remaining seven were treated at the scene. The British Columbia Health Services provided updates on the injuries, noting that the victims were taken to Bella Coola Hospital and later transferred to Vancouver for further care. The search for the bear, which authorities believe may have been previously injured, is ongoing.
This incident comes amid a series of deadly bear attacks in Japan, with the U.S. State Department issuing warnings to Americans in the region. The U.S. Embassy in Tokyo has advised travelers to remain vigilant due to the rise in bear-related fatalities since April. The connection between the current incident and the global trend of bear attacks underscores the escalating risks faced by hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Additionally, the case highlights the critical role of community collaboration in managing wildlife threats, as officials have been in close contact with the Nuxalk Nation to ensure public safety and awareness.
A spokesperson for British Columbia’s minister of environment and parks, Tamara Davidson, praised the teachers involved in the incident, calling them ‘true heroes.’ Davidson emphasized the need for preparedness, noting that the teachers were well-equipped and trained to handle such emergencies. The incident has sparked conversations about the importance of education and awareness programs in regions where wildlife interactions are common. As the search for the bear continues, authorities are reinforcing the need for caution and vigilance among residents and visitors in remote areas.