Suspected deadly grizzly bear attack near B.C. trail sparks public warning
A suspected deadly grizzly bear attack has prompted officials to urge members of the public to stay away from a B.C. trail in the central coast region.
The B.C. Conservation Officer Service (BCCOS) posted online that a team of conservation officers is in Bella Coola investigating what is suspected to be a fatal attack by a grizzly bear.
“One individual was located deceased in the Snooka West Trail area on Monday afternoon, following search efforts with RCMP and SAR,” wrote the service in an update posted to social media.
“The BCCOS was requested to assist after evidence at the scene suggested an animal may have been involved.”
Officers are still looking for a second individual, as the pair was reported by family to be missing on Sunday, Nov. 1.
“Our thoughts are with the family of the victims during this tragic time. We are in contact with the family to offer any support we can as we continue to investigate this incident,” said Insp. Jeff Tyre in an online statement.
“We urge people to stay away from Snooka West Trail area for their own safety. We appreciate people’s concerns and the desire to assist, but it is critical the public stay out of the area – both due to the danger and to allow officers to do their work.”
The Nuxalk Nation Chief and Council also issued a statement about the “fatal bear-related incident that occurred in the Bella Coola Valley near the Snooka West Trail Network.”
Bella Coola Valley Tourism
“Our immediate concern is for everyone affected by this incident, their families, and the safety and well-being of our community. As a precaution, we ask residents to exercise extreme caution when travelling or spending time near the Snooka West Trail Network, (and) keep children and pets close and follow any instructions issued by responding authorities.”
The BCOS and Nuxalk Nation liaisons are working with the BC Coroners Service, Bella Coola RCMP, and Bella Coola Valley Search and Rescue as the investigation continues.
Bella Coola RCMP
The latest incident comes almost one year after Bella Coola was left reeling after a grizzly bear attack left numerous people injured, some critically.
According to a statement Daily Hive received from the Provincial Health Services Authority (PHSA), the attack occurred on Thursday, Nov. 20, 2025.
B.C. Emergency Health Services responded to a call about an animal attack on a trail near Highway 20 in Bella Coola.
“Two ambulances and a community paramedic responded to the scene,” PHSA told Daily Hive.
“Two patients were in critical condition, and two were in serious condition. A further seven people were cared for at the scene but did not require hospital transport,” PHSA said.