A school community is in mourning after a terrifying grizzly bear attack left multiple pupils and teachers injured during a hiking trip in Canada.
The Attack on the Hiking Trail
The incident occurred on the afternoon of November 20 near Highway 20 in Bella Coola, British Columbia. A group from the Acwsalcta School, which is run by the indigenous Nuxalk Nation, was ambushed by the massive predator.
Emergency services were alerted to the "animal attack" at approximately 1.46pm. Upon arrival, they discovered nearly a dozen injured people. The BC Emergency Health Services coordinated a significant response, with several patients requiring urgent airlifting to hospital.
Heroism and Resilience in the Face of Danger
In an official statement, the Acwsalcta School praised the "courage" of its teachers and the "resilience" of its students. The school was closed the following day as the community processed the traumatic event.
The school's statement read: "To our staff: thank you for your swift actions, calm leadership, and unwavering dedication to protecting and supporting our students. Your courage and professionalism made a tremendous difference in an incredibly challenging moment."
One parent, Veronica Schooner, provided a harrowing account from her 10-year-old son, Alvarez, who was part of the group. She revealed that her son was "running for his life" and that the bear came so close he "even felt its fur".
Ms Schooner also highlighted the extreme bravery of one male teacher, who "took the full brunt" of the bear's assault and was among those critically injured and airlifted from the scene.
Aftermath and Official Response
According to the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, four people were hospitalised, with two in critical condition and two others seriously wounded.
The British Columbia Conservation Officer Service confirmed that a grizzly bear was responsible for the mauling. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) also attended the scene.
In the aftermath, the Nuxalk Nation issued a warning that the "aggressive bear" remained at large in the area. Local residents were advised to avoid the forested and river area where the attack happened and to stay indoors until further notice.
