Image Credit: SUBMITTED/Conservation Officer Service
October 08, 2022 - 8:44 AM
Three hikers have been injured in a predatory bear attack near Dawson Creek.
A family of four was hiking along Wolverine Trail on Bear Mountain when they encountered a black bear charging at them, shortly after 7 p.m. on Oct. 3, according to a Facebook post by the B.C. Conservation Officer Service.
They turned to run the other way and the bear chased after them.
The bear attacked one woman. Another woman and a teenage boy were injured as they tried to help.
Dawson Creek RCMP officers and the Conservation Officer Service responded.
An adult male black bear was shot and killed by police. It was later confirmed to be the offending animal and no other bears were located during a sweep of the area.
One woman was airlifted to a hospital in Edmonton and her condition is unknown. Two other victims were transported to the hospital in Dawson Creek.
A COS investigation determined it to be an “extremely rare” predatory attack.
“The COS encourages anyone recreating in bear country to take precautions and equip themselves in case they encounter wildlife. This includes being aware of your surroundings, such as noticing potential signs of bears in the area; carrying bear spray and knowing how to use it, as well as taking along noise devices – especially in the backcountry and if there is limited visibility on a trail.”
Despite the unseasonably warm weather, bears are still getting ready to hibernate for the winter. COS said right now it's especially important to ensure attractants like garbage, pet food and birdseed are secured.
"Locking up garbage is the single best way to help keep people, and bears, safe," COS said on Twitter.
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