B.C. officers capture four more grizzlies in Bella Coola as the investigation widens into the recent attack that injured schoolchildren.
Four More Grizzlies Captured as Bella Coola Probe Widens
Capture and Ongoing Investigation
B.C. Conservation Officer Service (COS) confirmed Wednesday that four additional grizzly bears were captured in Bella Coola as part of the ongoing investigation into a violent bear attack on schoolchildren two weeks ago. Officers say the animals were secured after continued monitoring in the 4 Mile area, where the incident occurred.
Purpose of the Assessment
Officials reported the bears will undergo forensic testing to determine whether they played any role in the attack. The assessments include DNA comparison and behavioral evaluation, examined in partnership with provincial wildlife specialists.
Previous Captures and Findings
Last week, four other grizzly bears were captured and later released after forensic evidence confirmed they were not associated with the incident. Those bears were relocated within their natural range to a remote, undisclosed site. Post-release GPS monitoring shows they are healthy and moving toward winter denning.
Current Operations on the Ground
Conservation officers remain stationed in Bella Coola as the investigation continues. The COS is working closely with wildlife biologists and the provincial wildlife veterinarian to manage bear activity in the region while ensuring community safety.
Community Guidance and Safety Measures
Residents have again been urged to avoid the 4 Mile area, remain indoors when possible, and refrain from searching for bears independently. Authorities emphasize that approaching or tracking wildlife poses serious risk and hinders ongoing operations.
Impact on Victims and Broader Wildlife Concerns
Four people — three children and one adult from Acwsalcta School — suffered serious injuries in the attack and were airlifted to Vancouver for treatment. No new updates on their conditions have been released.
According to the Ministry of Environment, Bella Coola has recorded 24 human–wildlife conflict calls related to grizzly bears this year, with 18 of those reported in the last three months, highlighting a significant rise in regional wildlife encounters.
