A bear is dead, and a man is recovering from his injuries after an early-morning attack in Mission on Monday (May 18).
Gordon Gwyn discovered a black bear outside his home before the sun was even up on Victoria Day. But unlike past bear sightings in the area, this interaction ended in confrontation between the two.
The bear reportedly took a swipe at Gwyn and struck him on the arm as he attempted to get back inside his home.
The B.C. Conservation Officer Service (BCCOS) responded to the Mission home after getting a report of the attack and began an investigation, which led to the bear being found on Tuesday.
“It was identified as the offending bear through victim and witness descriptions, as well as physical evidence,” said BCCOS. “The bear was also determined to have a history in the area, displaying behaviour of no fear of humans.”
Due to the circumstances, BCCOS killed the bear, with two other young bears also being captured on Tuesday and relocated to another area of B.C. after being ear-tagged.
“The BCCOS investigation concluded these bears – determined to be yearlings – were not involved in the attack and had no history with the BCCOS.”
Although the offending bear has been dealt with, BCCOS still warned that potential conflicts with bears and other wildlife remain a very real possibility in and around the Mission area.
“Residents are asked to take precautions in case of wildlife encounters, such as leashing pets, securing attractants, and never approaching bears,” said BCCOS.
Instances of aggressive bear behaviour can be reported to BCCOS at 1-877-952-7277.