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10-Year-Old Says He "Felt the Fur" as Grizzly Charged School Group Near Bella Coola; Four Hospitalized

07:09 PM, 11/22/2025
10-Year-Old Says He "Felt the Fur" as Grizzly Charged School Group Near Bella Coola; Four Hospitalized

A grizzly charged a school group near Bella Coola on Nov. 20, injuring three children and one adult who were later taken to Vancouver hospitals. A 10-year-old said the bear ran so close he "felt its fur," though it seemed to be pursuing another person. Teachers used bear spray and a bear banger to drive the animal off; seven others were treated at the scene. The bear had not been located as of Nov. 21 and may have been previously injured; locals are asked to stay indoors and report sightings to RAPP.

On Nov. 20, a grizzly bear charged a group from Acwsalcta School near a riverside trail in Bella Coola, British Columbia, leaving several people injured and prompting an urgent community response.

"He was running for his life," said Veronica Schooner of her 10-year-old son, Alvarez. She added that the bear ran so close her son "felt its fur," though it appeared to be targeting another person as it passed.

The British Columbia Conservation Officer Service (BCCOS) reported that multiple teachers intervened, using bear spray and a bear banger to drive the animal away. Three children and one adult were seriously injured and later transported to hospitals in Vancouver for further care; an additional seven people received treatment at the scene.

The Provincial Health Services Authority confirmed the four patients remained hospitalized and asked that their families' privacy be respected. Conservation officers returned to the area that evening to investigate, but as of Nov. 21 the bear had not been located. Investigators said the animal may have been previously injured before the attack.

BCCOS Inspector Kevin Van Damme said the agency was working closely with the Nuxalk Nation and local community leaders while the investigation continued. Acwsalcta School issued a statement praising students and staff for their calm, quick actions and for supporting one another during a frightening incident.

Authorities urged residents in the Bella Coola area to stay indoors and to report any bear sightings to the Report All Poachers and Polluters (RAPP) line at 1-877-952-7277. Officials continue to investigate and have asked the public to share any relevant information that could help locate the animal.

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