4 students injured in Bella Coola grizzly attack, 2 in critical condition: officials

A grizzly bear attack involving students on a trail near Bella Coola, B.C., has left two people in critical condition and two others seriously injured, emergency officials confirmed Thursday.

B.C. Emergency Health Services (BCEHS) says seven additional people were treated at the scene but did not need to be transported to hospital.

The attack happened shortly before 2 p.m. PT near Highway 20 in the area known as 4 Mile. Poor weather meant helicopters from the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre were called in to assist with medical transport.

Students among the injured

RCMP say the victims were part of a school group, though the ages and identities of students have not been confirmed publicly. One parent told The Canadian Press that teachers tried to fight off the bear, and that a male teacher — described as taking "the whole brunt of it" — was among those airlifted to hospital.

The mother said her child witnessed the attack and was left traumatized, noting that three children were among those seriously hurt.

School closure and community response

Acwsalcta School, operated by the Nuxalk Nation, confirmed that the victims are part of the school community and announced it will be closed Friday "due to the bear incident."

“We are devastated for the individuals and families impacted," said Nuxalk Nation Chief Samuel Schooner. “All individuals involved are receiving medical support and our priority is to ensure that they are safe.”

The nation urged residents not to search for the bear, which remained at large as of Thursday evening, and arranged transportation so community members can avoid walking near forested and river areas.

Area closed and warnings issued

The B.C. Conservation Officer Service has ordered residents to stay out of surrounding wooded areas while officers and RCMP remain at the scene.

Jayme Kennedy, chair of the Central Coast Regional District, said the community is united in shock and grief.

“We are all feeling devastation as we try to understand the magnitude of the attack and navigate what has happened,” she said, adding the district is prepared to help where needed.

Authorities have not released further details on the bear or whether efforts are underway to locate it.