Provincial posted Jul 7, 2023 @ 05:40pm by Emily Alexander

21-year-old tree planter ‘seriously injured’ in northern BC bear attack: BCCOS

A tree planter who was attacked by a bear in northern BC on Thursday remains in hospital in stable condition.

The BC Conservation Officer Service (BCCOS) has determined that the 21-year-old woman was planting trees in a cutblock area southwest of Bearhole Lake Provincial Park near Tumbler Ridge when she was "seriously injured" in a defensive bear attack shortly after 3 pm.

The woman was interviewed by BCCOS, who says the bear first bluff-charged and the victim retreated to a nearby roadway, where the bear attacked.

Eventually the bear disengaged and ran off, and a co-worker came to the woman’s aid and called for help.

BCCOS determined bear activity was evident in the area, but no bears were seen upon attendance.

It is believed the bear was a grizzly, but there is no conclusive physical evidence.

Due to the defensive nature of the attack and remote proximity of the location, BCCOS believes the risk to public safety is low and is not undertaking any trapping efforts.

The RCMP, BC EHS and Tumbler Ridge SAR assisted with the incident, which took place approximately 175 kilometres northeast of Prince George.

BCCOS is reminding the public to take precautions in case of wildlife encounters. These precautions include carrying bear spray, traveling in groups and ensuring pets are leashed.

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