The B.C. Conservation Officer Service is investigating a suspected fatal grizzly bear attack near Bella Coola after one person was found dead, and a second still missing.
Inspector Jeff Tyre says conservation officers were called to assist RCMP and local Search and Rescue teams on Monday, after human remains were found near the Snooka West Trail.
The two people were reported missing by family members on Sunday.
“There was evidence to suggest a bear may have been involved,” Tyre said in the statement. “Conservation officers responded to help secure the area… The search continues for the second individual. Additional conservation officers arrived last night in Bella Coola to investigate this incident.”
Tyre said that no bears have been captured at this time; however, trapping efforts are underway, and any bears that are captured will be assessed to determine the next steps.
The service said if a bear is confirmed to have been responsible for the attack, it will be “dispatched” to ensure public safety, as per provincial human-wildlife conflict guidelines.
“Our thoughts are with the families of the victims during this tragic time. We are working to support the family as our investigation continues.”
The B.C. Conservation Office has urged the public to stay away from the Snooka West Trail area for their own safety and to allow the officers to continue their investigation.
Conservation officers are working alongside the BC Coroners Service, Bella Coola RCMP, Bella Coola Valley Search and Rescue and Nuxalk Nation liaisons as their investigation continues.
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