Intense Hunt for 3 Grizzlies After Attack on B.C. Schoolchildren

Image Credit: npapaioannou

Bella Coola, B.C. – An urgent search is underway in the Bella Coola Valley on British Columbia’s central coast after a grizzly bear attacked a group of elementary schoolchildren and teachers, injuring 11 people and sending four to hospital, including three children and one teacher.

The attack happened around midday on November 20, when a group of about 20 fourth- and fifth-grade students and staff from Acwsalcta School, which is operated by the Nuxalk Nation, stopped for lunch along a wooded river trail in the Four Mile area east of Bella Coola. A grizzly bear suddenly emerged from the forest and charged the group.

Witnesses say teachers intervened immediately, using bear spray and noise deterrents in an effort to drive the animal away. One male teacher is reported to have taken “the full brunt” of the attack while trying to shield the children.

Emergency crews treated several people on scene, while the most seriously injured were airlifted or transported to hospital in Vancouver. Officials say two people were initially listed in critical condition and two in serious condition, but all are now reported to be stable and recovering. Seven others, including additional students and staff, sustained less severe injuries.

The B.C. Conservation Officer Service has mounted a large-scale operation to locate the bear, which investigators believe may have been injured during the confrontation. By November 22, officers had expanded the search to include three grizzlies — a sow and two nearly grown cubs seen in the area around the time of the attack. Traps, motion-activated cameras and patrols on the ground are being used in an effort to identify and capture the animals.

Residents in and around Bella Coola have been urged to stay indoors, keep children close to home and immediately report any bear sightings. Acwsalcta School cancelled classes following the attack and has paused all outdoor activities while the investigation continues. Community leaders have opened supports, including counseling and cultural healing practices, to help students, staff and families process the trauma.

Authorities stress that attacks of this kind remain extremely rare, even in bear country. But the Bella Coola incident has renewed debate about how communities can balance respect for wildlife — especially a culturally important species like the grizzly — with the need to keep children and residents safe.