A terrible attack. Eleven people, including children, were injured after a bear attacked a school group in rural British Columbia, in western Canada, on Thursday, according to Canadian media. Two people were in critical condition and two others were in serious condition, the Canadian Press news agency said.
The incident occurred this Thursday afternoon on a trail in the Bella Coola area, about 700 km northwest of Vancouver. Emergency services did not specify the ages of the victims.
The mother of a 10-year-old child, quoted by the Canadian Press, said her son was so close to the animal “that he even smelled its fur.” Then, “he ran for his life.” One of the teachers accompanying the group of schoolchildren “took it all away” when trying to intervene, the schoolboy’s mother added, and was evacuated by helicopter.
“Aggressive bear”
The emergency services of the Nuxalk nation, the Native American people who administer the region, spoke of an “aggressive bear.” The animal had not been captured as of Thursday evening. The Nuxalk Nation urged caution on social media, asking people to stay home and avoid roads.
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The students attend Acwsalcta School, an independent school. “It is difficult to find the words in this incredibly difficult time,” the school said in a Facebook message.
“Our hearts go out to the individuals and families affected by this bear accident. Everyone involved is receiving medical support and our priority is ensuring their safety,” Nuxalk Nation Chief Samuel Schooner said in a statement.
Bears are known to be particularly aggressive this time of year, as they attempt to increase their fat reserves before hibernation. Grizzly bears in the region typically hibernate from November to April or May.
