Robin Westgate, 12, fought off a black bear that charged him in his Bellingham backyard on the evening of Sept. 13, suffering puncture wounds near his hip. His father, Noah, intervened and was also injured; both were treated at a local hospital.
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife logged a report on Sept. 14. Neighbors say this is at least the second recent wildlife incident in the area, but the family plans to remain in their home.
A Washington state family is counting their blessings after a 12-year-old boy fought off a black bear that charged him in their Bellingham backyard on the evening of Sept. 13.
Robin Westgate, 12, told KING 5 that he surprised a sow while stepping outside to prepare a snack. The animal charged him twice, leaving puncture wounds near his hip from its claws. Robin said he felt he had no choice but to fight: “It was fight or die. I didn't really have an option,” he told reporters.
“If you curl up or if you run away, you're probably going to die. If you fight, you have a better chance, so fight,” Robin said.
The boy's father, Noah Westgate, ran outside from their Whatcom County home and drew the bear's attention away from his son. Noah was also injured during the struggle and described landing what he called “the hardest punch of my life” as the bear struck his hand. Robin's younger sister, Riverley, heard the commotion and ran for help.
Both Robin and Noah sustained injuries and were treated at a local hospital. Officials at the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife confirmed they received “a report of a human-black bear incident” around 11:30 a.m. local time on Sept. 14 relating to the prior evening's attack.
Neighbors said this is at least the second bear-related incident in the area in recent months, prompting concern among people who use nearby trails. Resident Benjie Howard told KIRO 7 that seeing wildlife such as mountain lions and bobcats is part of living near nature, but multiple encounters in a short span are worrying.
The Westgates said the attack will not deter them from living in and enjoying their home. “I'm a proud papa that my 12-year-old son stood his ground against a black bear,” Noah said. Robin added that the encounter hasn’t changed his view of the area's overall risks but has given him confidence: “The only thing that has changed is now I know I can trust myself.”
Encounters with black bears are rare but can be dangerous. Wildlife officials advise keeping a safe distance, securing attractants like garbage and pet food, and following local guidance if bears are active in your neighborhood.
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