A rare grizzly attack on B.C. students left four injured, including two critically, as conservation officers search for the bear still loose near Bella Coola.
Four Hurt in Bella Coola Grizzly Attack on School Group
Incident Overview
A routine school field trip in Bella Coola, B.C., turned tragic Thursday when a grizzly bear attacked a group of students and staff, leaving two people in critical condition and two others seriously injured, according to B.C. Emergency Health Services. Seven additional individuals were treated on-site for minor injuries and shock.
Location and Conditions
The attack occurred along a forested trail near the community’s 4 Mile area, where the group had stopped for lunch. Poor weather conditions required specialized air support from the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre to transport the most severely injured to medical care.
Victims and Response
Witnesses said teachers and students attempted to shield one another as the bear charged. One male teacher suffered the “full brunt” of the attack, according to community members. Three children were among those badly injured.
All injured individuals were stabilized at Bella Coola Hospital before being transferred to Vancouver for advanced care.
Community and School Impact
Acwsalcta School, operated by the Nuxalk Nation, confirmed that its students and staff were involved. The school announced its closure Friday, calling the incident devastating and expressing gratitude for the bravery shown during the attack. About 20 people were on the field trip.
Nuxalk Nation Chief Samuel Schooner said the attack was “unprecedented” and caused “significant trauma” across the community. Support services and transportation alternatives have been offered so residents can avoid the area.
Investigation and Public Safety Measures
The B.C. Conservation Officer Service, working with RCMP, reported that initial evidence suggests the bear may have been injured prior to the attack. Residents have been urged to stay clear of the forest and river zone near 4 Mile as officers work to track and capture the animal, which remains at large.
Regional officials say bear encounters have risen sharply this year in Bella Coola, though an attack of this scale is considered extremely rare.
Community Reaction
Jayme Kennedy, chair of the Central Coast Regional District, said the region is reeling from an event she described as “unimaginable” and unlike anything previously experienced in the area. Local leaders expressed solidarity with the Nuxalk Nation and pledged full support as the community recovers.
