UPDATE: A shocking grizzly bear attack on a group of schoolchildren and teachers in Bella Coola, British Columbia, has left 11 people injured, two of them critically. The attack unfolded Thursday afternoon, October 12, 2023, on a walking trail located 700 kilometers (435 miles) northwest of Vancouver.
Authorities confirm that the “aggressive bear” remains at large as of Thursday evening. The Nuxalk Nation issued a warning, stating, “Officers are armed. Remain indoors and off the highway.” Police and conservation officers are actively monitoring the area in response to this urgent situation.
Emergency Health Services spokesman Brian Twaites reported that two individuals suffered critical injuries while two others sustained serious wounds. The remaining victims were treated at the scene, highlighting the urgent need for medical assistance.
Witness accounts reveal the harrowing details of the attack. Parent Veronica Schooner described the chaos, stating that multiple individuals tried to intervene as the bear charged. A male teacher, who bravely attempted to protect the children, “got the whole brunt of it” and was airlifted from the scene. Schooner’s 10-year-old son, Alvarez, was in the group of fourth- and fifth-graders and came dangerously close to the bear, even feeling its fur.
Alvarez, visibly shaken, expressed concern for his classmates after narrowly escaping the attack. “He keeps crying for his friends, and oh my goodness, right away he started praying for his friends,” said Schooner, emphasizing the emotional toll on the children involved. Some students were reportedly hit with bear spray as teachers fought to fend off the animal while others fled for safety, leaving many shaken and traumatized.
In response to this distressing incident, Acwsalcta School, an independent institution operated by the Nuxalk First Nation, announced it would be closed on Friday. The school is also providing counseling services to support students and staff during this challenging time. In a heartfelt Facebook post, the school expressed gratitude for their team and students, stating, “It’s hard to know what to say during this very difficult time.”
With the bear still on the loose, local authorities are urging residents to stay vigilant and adhere to safety protocols. The community is reeling from this unexpected attack, and the emotional impact on the children and their families cannot be overstated.
As developments unfold, residents and officials alike are left wondering what the immediate future holds. Stay tuned for updates as this story continues to evolve.
