Urgent Rescue: Teachers Battle Grizzly to Save Students in B.C.

UPDATE: A group of educators and community members displayed extraordinary bravery during a shocking bear attack on schoolchildren near Bella Coola, B.C. on Thursday, October 12, 2023. The harrowing incident occurred while students from the Nuxalk First Nation were on a field trip near Acwalcta School, leading to four individuals, including children, being hospitalized.

In an immediate and desperate effort to protect the students, one teacher, despite being on crutches, and another adult wielding bear spray confronted the grizzly head-on. “When the kids were getting attacked, one of my cousins who had his skull ripped, ran towards the bear and jumped on it with his bare hands,” said Noel Pootlass, a hereditary chief of the Nuxalk First Nation. His cousin began “punching and kicking” the bear, showcasing incredible courage under dire circumstances.

Witnesses report that a second teacher attempted to fend off the bear using bear spray, but it appeared ineffective. “It never even fazed it,” Pootlass noted. Meanwhile, the third teacher, using crutches, engaged in the struggle, striking the animal in the eyes and head for several minutes until it finally retreated.

Authorities confirm that seven others were treated on the scene for minor injuries sustained during the chaos as students fled the area. The British Columbia Conservation Officer Service (BCCOS) has since deployed additional officers to track the bear and investigate the attack. A total of eight officers are now on the ground, supported by the RCMP and aerial resources, as they work to ensure the safety of local residents.

Local officials are urging residents to stay indoors and avoid the Four Mile area, emphasizing, “This is a fluid and dangerous situation,” according to Inspector Kevin Van Damme of the BCCOS. “For the safety of residents and our officers, please allow them space to do their work.”

The aftermath of the attack has left the community reeling. “I’m amazed by the heroism and the bravery they had to protect the kids,” said Pootlass, highlighting the serious injuries sustained by the rescuers. One teacher reportedly required 100 stitches and suffered multiple fractures, including in the shoulder, elbow, and ankle. Remarkably, Pootlass emphasized that it is “amazing none of them were killed.”

In response to the traumatic event, the Nuxalk First Nation is taking action to ensure those affected have access to necessary medical and spiritual healing resources.

As the investigation continues, authorities remain vigilant, tracking the bear and monitoring the situation closely. Residents are advised to stay informed and heed safety warnings.

The community of Bella Coola, located approximately 330 km southeast of Prince Rupert, is now on high alert. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of wildlife encounters, especially in areas where humans and animals coexist closely.

Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.