Two hikers were severely injured by a grizzly bear while hiking in the McGregor Mountain range, northeast of Prince George, B.C., during the Thanksgiving weekend. Officials have reported that the hikers are now in stable condition after the attack.
The B.C. Conservation Officer Service disclosed that the incident occurred when the hikers came across a sow with two cubs on Farm Cabin trail, a popular hiking spot in the area. The victims were swiftly transported to University Hospital of Northern B.C. in Prince George for treatment and are currently recovering.
An investigation by the agency concluded that the bear’s behavior was defensive in nature. Consequently, no action will be taken against the bears due to the circumstances of the incident. As a precaution, the trailhead has been closed, and hikers are advised to steer clear of the area.
Grizzly bear encounters are infrequent but can result in fatalities. On average, there is less than one deadly attack every five years in British Columbia, as reported by WildSafeBC. To enhance safety while hiking, the conservation officer service recommends that hikers go in groups, make noise, and carry essential items such as bear spray, noisemakers, and communication devices.