The government of British Columbia, Canada, launched a search on the 21st for a grizzly bear that emerged from a remote forest; this grizzly bear attacked multiple children and teachers, with two people in “critical” condition. Four people are still being treated in the hospital. Another seven people received treatment on site but did not require hospitalization.
The incident occurred in the Bella Coola area, and the affected teachers and students are from the Acwsalcta School, operated by the local Nuxalk Nation.
The grizzly attacked multiple 9- and 10-year-old children from the school while they were participating in outdoor activities.
The mother of one 10-year-old student, Scoona, revealed that many people tried to fend off the bear during the attack. One male teacher was the most seriously injured and was airlifted to the hospital by helicopter.
Scoona said her son was very close to the bear and even touched its fur. Some students were sprayed with bear spray as the teachers fought off the grizzly.
Acwsalcta School suspended classes on the 21st and provided psychological counseling services. Local police are urging the public to stay away from trails, and officers are patrolling the area armed.