2 grizzly bears caught after B.C. attack, evidence ‘not conclusive’ on involvement

As the search continues for a bear that attacked an elementary school group in Bella Coola, a debate on the hunting ban has reignited.

Conservation officers in Bella Coola, B.C., have captured two grizzly bears—days after a shocking attack on a group of elementary school children and their teachers.

In an update Monday, officials said conservation officers had safely trapped one bear, but it had not yet been linked to Thursday’s attack that hospitalized three children and one adult.

“Conservation officers have assessed the bear, including comparing attack scene evidence with evidence analyzed from the captured bear. Evidence is not conclusive that the captured bear was involved in the attack,” a statement from the B.C. Conservation Officer Service said.

“As a result, the bear will be fitted with a GPS collar and relocated.”

The search for a sow and her two offspring continues, according to the statement.

“These bears are still considered a danger to the public,” the BCCOS said.

“The situation remains fluid as officers work tirelessly to capture and identify any bears involved.”

The agency confirmed a second bear had been captured in the search via a brief statement issued Monday afternoon. Details regarding the bear have not yet been released as it is currently being assessed.