The RCMP says several students are injured after a grizzly bear attack in Bella Coola on Thursday.
North District RCMP Cpl. Madonna Saunderson says the attack happened on Thursday afternoon, but she didn’t know the age or gender of the students.
The Nuxalk Nation says in a statement posted on its social media site that first responders are on the scene of the attack along with healers.
The nation warns residents to stay indoors since the bear still hasn’t been found.
The nation told residents not to walk anywhere in the area and that multiple ride options were available.
Both the conservation service and the First Nation have told residents to stay away from the forested and river areas of 4 Mile, in the Bella Coola River Valley.
Several grizzly attacks have been reported around the province in the last couple months:
The BCCOS is reminding hunters and backcountry trekkers to travel in groups, store food securely, carry bear spray, and make noise to alert wildlife.
If you encounter a grizzly, the service says you should stay calm and not run. Instead, you’re advised to speak softly, and back away slowly, or use bear spray if it charges.
CityNews has reached out to BC Emergency Health Services for more information on the status of the victims.
— With files from Charles Brockman.