Conservation officers in British Columbia are conducting an intensive search for a bear that attacked a group of children and their teachers in Bella Coola, prompting immediate safety measures including school restrictions and door-to-door pickups.
Immediate Response to Dangerous Wildlife Encounter
The incident occurred on Saturday, November 22, 2025, when the bear confronted the educational group in the Bella Coola area. BC Conservation Officer Service personnel were quickly dispatched to the scene, where they documented evidence including measuring footprints in the mud to track the animal responsible for the attack.
Authorities have implemented door-to-door pickups for residents in affected areas as a precautionary measure while the search continues. The conservation service is treating this as a high-priority situation given the serious nature of the attack on the school group.
School Safety Measures Implemented
In response to the ongoing bear threat, local schools have taken dramatic steps to ensure student safety. Students are now restricted to school grounds during school hours and all outdoor activities have been modified or cancelled until the situation is resolved.
School administrators are working closely with conservation officers to monitor the situation and have implemented enhanced safety protocols. Parents have been notified of the restrictions and additional safety measures being taken to protect children while the bear remains at large.
Ongoing Search Operation
The BC Conservation Officer Service continues its dedicated search effort, utilizing tracking expertise and wildlife management resources to locate the dangerous bear. Officers are following multiple leads and evidence collected from the attack site.
The conservation service has emphasized the seriousness of the situation and is urging residents to remain vigilant, avoid areas where the bear might be hiding, and report any sightings immediately. The search operation involves multiple officers and specialized equipment to ensure public safety in the Bella Coola region.
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of human-wildlife coexistence in British Columbia's remote communities and the critical role of conservation officers in managing dangerous wildlife encounters.
