Conservation officers in Bella Coola, British Columbia, are intensifying their efforts to capture three grizzly bears following an attack on a group of elementary students and teachers. The incident occurred on Thursday afternoon while the group was on a field trip near the Bella Coola River.

The attack left two individuals critically injured and two others seriously hurt. Witnesses reported seeing two additional grizzly bears in the area during the incident. Conservation Officer Service Insp. Kevin Van Damme emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating, "I really need to stress how dangerous this situation is with this bear at large." He urged residents to avoid the 4 Mile subdivision, remain indoors, and travel only by vehicle until further notice.

In response to the attack, conservation officers have set up traps and cameras to monitor the area. An RCMP helicopter is assisting in the search using thermal imaging technology. The investigation includes assessing the site, collecting evidence, and interviewing witnesses and victims.

The group, consisting of about 20 students from Acwsalcta School, had stopped for lunch along a forested trail when the bear emerged and attacked. Seven individuals received first aid at the scene but did not require hospitalization. However, three students and one teacher were transported to hospitals in Metro Vancouver for emergency care. The families of the victims have requested privacy, and no further details about their conditions have been released.

Noel Pootlass, the head Nuxalk hereditary chief, identified one of the injured as a cousin who suffered severe head trauma. He praised the teachers who intervened during the attack, stating, "I’m so thankful for the three teachers who intervened." Pootlass described the desperate situation of the bears, linking it to environmental changes such as clear-cutting and forest fires that have disrupted their habitats.

Acwsalcta School has suspended all outdoor field trips and land-based programming. The school plans to support students as they return to classes on Tuesday, focusing on trauma-informed care.

B.C. Premier David Eby commended the teachers for their bravery during the attack, expressing hope for a swift recovery for all affected. The Nuxalk Nation’s Youth Centre has opened its doors to provide counseling, meals, and cultural support to the community.

As the community seeks healing, wildlife experts caution against speculation regarding the bear's behavior. Nicholas Scapillati, executive director of the Grizzly Bear Foundation, noted that bear attacks typically fall into two categories: surprise encounters with a mother bear and her cubs or encounters with injured bears. He expressed concern about misinformation regarding bear aggression, stating, "That’s so inappropriate at a time when we’re focused on holding the children and families and all those affected in our hearts."

Residents are encouraged to report any bear sightings to the Report All Poachers and Polluters line. Conservation officers continue to work diligently to ensure the safety of the community and capture the bears involved in the incident.