Grizzly Bear Attack in Canada Injures 11 Students and Teachers

A terrifying grizzly bear attack injured 11 people, including schoolchildren and teachers, during a nature walk in Bella Coola, British Columbia, Canada. The incident happened on Thursday afternoon on a popular walking trail about 700 kilometres northwest of Vancouver.

According to local authorities, a group of fourth- and fifth-grade students from Acwsalcta School were out on the trail when a grizzly bear suddenly charged at them. The attack caused panic as teachers and nearby adults tried to protect the children.

Emergency officials confirmed that two people were critically injured, while two others suffered serious injuries. The remaining victims were treated at the scene. A teacher reportedly took the worst of the attack while trying to shield the students and was airlifted for treatment.

The Nuxalk Nation issued an alert shortly after the incident, warning residents to stay indoors as the bear was still on the loose. Police and conservation officers armed with safety equipment began searching the area to prevent further danger.

Parents described the fear their children experienced. One mother shared that her 10-year-old son was so close to the bear that he “felt its fur” as it ran past him. She said teachers tried using bear spray to stop the animal, but some children were accidentally hit by the spray during the struggle.

The school announced it would remain closed on Friday and that counselling would be offered to students and staff. The community expressed deep concern and relief that the situation wasn’t even worse, calling the incident one of the most frightening events their school has faced.

Authorities are closely monitoring the area and advising residents to remain cautious while the search for the bear continues.