Two Kimberley residents were airlifted to hospital in Calgary after being attacked by what is believed to be a sow grizzly yesterday afternoon (Nov. 25), while they were hiking northeast of the city.

B.C. Conservation officer (CO) Joe Caravetta reports the attack was likely the result of the hikers, a male and a female,  startling what was likely a female grizzly with two cubs. It is not certain yet that it was a grizzly but the CO says it is likely because of hibernation patterns dictating it could not be a black bear.

According to reports the sow attacked the woman when she attempted to run away, and then turned on the male, before returning to the woman.

However, the hikers, whose names have yet to be released by authorities, managed to get away and were later discovered on L.D. Ranch Road with injuries to their legs, groin, head and arms. The attack happened at about 3 p.m.

RCMP and B.C. Conservation Officers attended to the scene and are currently trying to locate the bears to gain more information – particularly to determine if it was a grizzly or black bear.

E-KNOW is currently trying to obtain more information and will present it as soon as possible, including the names of the hikers. A couple who live near the area where the attack occurred has been named but no confirmation has been provided yet.

There is also no word yet on their condition in hospital in Calgary.

Above image illustrative only. By Thomas Stanton Photography/ https://thomasstanton.com/just-something-i-saw.html

e-KNOW

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