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Grizzly Bear Attacks School Group Near Bella Coola; Two Critically Injured, Several Hurt

On Nov. 20 a grizzly bear attacked a group of students and teachers near Highway 20 in Bella Coola, British Columbia. Two people were critically injured and two others were seriously hurt; seven more were treated at the scene. Acwsalcta School (Nuxalk Nation) closed the next day while authorities urged residents to avoid the "4 Mile" forested and river areas. Witnesses described chaotic scenes, including a teacher who was reportedly airlifted after being badly injured.

08:33 PM, 11/21/2025Society
Grizzly Bear Attacks School Group Near Bella Coola; Two Critically Injured, Several Hurt

On Nov. 20 at approximately 1:46 p.m., a grizzly bear attacked a group of students and teachers walking on a trail near Highway 20 in Bella Coola on British Columbia’s Central Coast.

Emergency responders reported that two people sustained critical injuries and two others were seriously hurt. Seven additional individuals received treatment at the scene and did not require hospital transport. Local emergency medical services, conservation officers and the RCMP responded to the incident.

Acwsalcta School, run by the Nuxalk Nation in Bella Coola, announced the school would be closed the following day "due to the bear incident," adding that the community was profoundly affected and grateful for staff and students as they cope with the aftermath.

The B.C. Conservation Officer Service confirmed a grizzly bear attack occurred and said public safety is the priority. Authorities have advised residents to avoid forested and river areas near the "4 Mile" area until the animal is located and the scene is declared safe.

Eyewitness Veronica Schooner said her 10-year-old son, Alvarez, was among the group when the bear struck. "He was running for his life," she recounted, adding that her son was close enough to feel the animal's fur. Schooner said several people tried to intervene and that a male teacher took the brunt of the attack; that teacher was airlifted from the scene.

North District RCMP officials described the victims' injuries as "very serious at the very least." The Nuxalk Nation also warned community members to remain indoors while the aggressive bear remains at large. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances of the attack and have not yet released additional details about the victims' identities or ages.

Anyone with information about the incident or sightings of the bear is asked to contact local authorities immediately. Public safety updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

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