The BC Conservation Officer Service (COS) says an elderly woman was taken to hospital after being attacked by a bear on her own property earlier this week.
In a social media post Thursday, the COS said the woman heard a noise coming from her garage in West Vancouver, and when she went to check it out she stumbled across the bear, which then “made contact.”
West Vancouver Police and paramedics were called to the scene, and the woman was taken to hospital with minor injuries, according to conservation officers.
Police searched the area but were unable to locate the bear at the time.
“There is initial evidence that the bear was attempting to break into the enclosed garage,” said the COS.
Conservation officers are now looking into the incident to try to determine what led to the attack, and if there were any previous public safety concerns about a bear in the area.
“The public is asked to be aware of their surroundings and take precautions in case of wildlife encounters, including travelling in groups, ensuring pets are leashed and carrying bear spray,” said the COS.
B.C. residents are also encouraged to secure any possible wildlife attractants, such as garbage, compost, fruit trees and bird feeders.
Anyone who spots a bear acting aggressively can call the Report All Poachers and Polluters (RAPP) hotline at 1-877-952-7277.
“The COS would like to thank their emergency responder partners for their assistance.”
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Adam Chan
