Eleven people injured in grizzly bear attack on Canadian school group.

A significant grizzly bear attack occurred in British Columbia on Thursday afternoon, leaving 11 individuals from a school group injured. The attack, which took place in the Bella Coola area, involved a group of fourth and fifth graders who were on a nature walk.

Among those injured, two individuals sustained critical injuries, including a male teacher who reportedly bore the brunt of the assault. Reports indicate that a 10-year-old student vividly described the traumatic experience, including feeling the bear’s fur during the incident.

In total, two individuals were hospitalized with severe injuries, while seven others received treatment on-site and did not require further medical care. As of the latest updates, one teacher and three children were still receiving medical attention from health professionals, as confirmed by the B.C. Conservation Officer Service.

The Conservation Officer Service provided insight into the response during the attack, noting that several teachers bravely intervened by using bear spray and a bear banger to drive the bear away. The bear emerged from the surrounding forest and targeted the group while they were walking along a trail.

Local authorities reported that adverse weather conditions complicated rescue and recovery efforts in the region. Residents of the Bella Coola area have been warned to avoid wooded and riverside sites in the vicinity where the bear encounter took place.

The event has deeply impacted the local community, particularly the Acwsalcta School, which is administered by the native Canadian Nuxalk Nation. The school expressed gratitude to its staff for their commendable actions during the crisis, highlighting their quick response, calm leadership, and commitment to protecting students.

Administrators also commended the students for their cooperation and resilience throughout the ordeal, acknowledging the frightening nature of the experience.

As of Friday morning, the bear had been sighted but remained at large. The B.C. Conservation Officer Service announced that efforts to capture and assess the bear would continue throughout the day. Residents are urged to remain indoors until further notice, as officials work to address the ongoing situation and ensure community safety.

This incident serves to remind the public of the potential dangers posed by wildlife in populated areas and underscores the importance of safety precautions for outdoor activities. Media News Source will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as they become available.