'A rare predatory attack': Bear that injured women in northern B.C. was hunting them, officials say
Two women left with life-altering injuries in northeastern B.C. this week were victims of "a rare predatory attack" by a black bear, according to conservation officers.
In an update posted on social media Thursday, the B.C. Conservation Officer Service said it had concluded the bear's attack on Analyn Shurtliff, her teenage son, and her friend Leosette Canoy "was predatory in nature."
"Predatory attacks by black bears are extremely rare," the BCCOS said in a Facebook post.
Nevertheless, evidence gathered at the scene and interviews with victims and witnesses suggested that the bear was hunting the victims for food, according to the service.
"The adult male black bear that was killed on site was acting alone," the BCCOS said. "Physical evidence found during the necropsy of the bear confirmed it was the offending animal."
The attack happened on the Bear Mountain Cross Country Ski Club trails around 7 p.m. Monday, according to Dawson Creek RCMP.
"Several attempts were made to scare the bear off, however it remained and would not leave the vicinity of the victims," Mounties said in a news release Tuesday.
"RCMP officers believed the bear to be guarding the victims, so discharged a rifle, striking the bear and killing it."
Online fundraisers have been set up to assist the victims of the attack, with the one for Shurtliff indicating that she had been airlifted to Vancouver in serious, but stable condition. She had a 50 per cent chance of losing her left arm and was at high risk for infection, according to the fundraiser.
Canoy was taken to Edmonton Royal Alexandra Hospital, where her fundraiser says she may have to stay for "weeks or months."
The BCCOS said it "sends its support to the families and best wishes on their recovery."
The service also reminded the public of bear-related safety tips.
"The COS encourages anyone recreating in bear country to take precautions and equip themselves in case they encounter wildlife," the BCCOS said. "This includes being aware of your surroundings, such as noticing potential signs of bears in the area; carrying bear spray and knowing how to use it, as well as taking along noise devices – especially in the backcountry and if there is limited visibility on a trail."
With files from CTV News Vancouver's Alyse Kotyk and Ben Nesbit
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
From outer space? Sask. farmers baffled after discovering strange wreckage in field
A family of fifth generation farmers from Ituna, Sask. are trying to find answers after discovering several strange objects lying on their land.
Broadcaster and commentator Rex Murphy dead at 77: National Post
The National Post is reporting that Rex Murphy, the pundit and columnist who hosted a national call-in radio show for decades, has died.
Pearson gold heist suspect arrested after flying into Toronto from India
Another suspect is in custody in connection with the gold heist at Toronto Pearson International Airport last year, police say.
Millions of cyberattacks per hour as B.C. government investigates multiple breaches
Careful attention to government statements and legislation is required to get a handle on the level of risk British Columbians’ information is under, as investigators probe multiple breaches under a continued barrage of attacks.
Ontario family receives massive hospital bill as part of LTC law, refuses to pay
A southwestern Ontario woman has received an $8,400 bill from a hospital in Windsor, Ont., after she refused to put her mother in a nursing home she hated -- and she says she has no intention of paying it.
Debate on abortion rights erupts on Parliament Hill, Poilievre vows he won't legislate
A Conservative government led by Pierre Poilievre would not legislate on, nor use the notwithstanding clause, on abortion, his office says, as anti-abortion protesters gather on Parliament Hill.
Justin and Hailey Bieber are expecting their first child together
Hailey and Justin Bieber are going to be parents. The couple announced the news on Thursday on Instagram, both sharing a video that showcases Hailey Bieber's growing belly.
Here are the ultraprocessed foods you most need to avoid, according to a 30-year study
Studies have shown that ultraprocessed foods can have a detrimental impact on health. But 30 years of research show they don’t all have the same impact.
New 'Lord of the Rings' film coming in 2026
The Oscar-winning team behind the nearly US$6 billion blockbuster 'Lord of the Rings' and 'The Hobbit' trilogies is reuniting to produce two new films.