Christopher Best reassured his family about the polar bear photos he shared online while working at a Nunavut radar site. His mother, Shelly Cox, recalled that he mentioned the bears were not close to him before his tragic encounter on August 8, 2024.
A report by Nasittuq Corporation, which manages North Warning System sites across a vast region from Yukon to eastern Labrador, detailed the events leading to the 34-year-old’s fatal bear attack on Brevoort Island, situated off the eastern coast of Baffin Island. Best, equipped with his camera, ventured outside after being warned of a nearby bear.
Despite passing a door with a prominent polar bear warning sign, Best proceeded, believing the bear was at a distance. Unaware of a second bear’s presence, surveillance footage revealed the second bear blocking his escape route to safety, leading to a fatal charge by both bears.
Cox, speaking from her home in Goose Bay, N.L., expressed that the tragedy could have been averted with improved safety measures such as fences and motion-sensor alarms at radar sites. The report highlighted the unprecedented nature of the incident, as no previous bear attacks had occurred in the seven-decade history of the North Warning System.
Best, a Labrador native, was described by Cox as a versatile individual with a passion for reading and photography. His employment history ranged from cleaning barbecues in Toronto to working on the reality show “Alone.” Despite awaiting security clearance for a logistics role, he temporarily undertook fuel tank cleaning at the site where the attack occurred.
The report revealed that Best, part of a tank cleaning crew, had encountered a bear the day before the fatal incident and even posted photos online from the safety of a vehicle. Despite precautions, he was unaware of the lurking danger posed by the bears at Brevoort Island.
Following the tragic event, the report recommended enhanced safety protocols, including obtaining permission from supervisors for after-hours outdoor activities and issuing public announcements during bear sightings. It also highlighted the importance of complete training documentation for polar bear awareness and suggested erecting fences at vulnerable areas within the camp.
While awaiting the completion of the official report by Employment and Social Development Canada, Nasittuq refrained from commenting, emphasizing their commitment to employee safety. Best’s personal belongings, including his camera and SD card with photos, were eventually returned to his family, who continue to seek closure amidst the devastating loss.