The entrance to Pine Lake Campground near where a Haines Junction resident was mauled by a bear. Photo Courtesy of CKRW.
Whitehorse, YT – Conservation officers are searching for the fourth bear after euthanizing three others involved in the mauling of a Haines Junction resident on Sunday night.
At around 10:30 p.m. on Sunday, June 30th, conservation officers responded to a report of a serious bear incident on the Trans Canada Trail connecting Pine Lake to Haines Junction.
A Haines Junction resident was jogging with their dog on a leash when they encountered a group of grizzly bears. The dog broke free, while the individual tried to create space between themselves and the bears, which triggered a defensive reaction.
The bear attacked the individual resulting in significant injuries requiring medical attention. Yukon Conservation Officer Services also believe the dog may have caused the bear to break off the attack giving the individual a chance to retreat and call for help.
The individual is still recovering in hospital.
A conservation officer euthanized one bear at the exact location of the attack and later received information that multiple bears were involved. The Pine Lake Campground was then closed for public safety.
Three additional bears matched the description of the ones involved and two were euthanized. Officers now monitor the area using helicopters and drones to locate the fourth bear.
DNA samples from the bears will be sent to a lab in Alberta to help identify the bear that attacked the person. Testing will also help confirm the group dynamic between the bears including whether they are related.
Yukon Conservation Officer Services thanked those who cooperated with their response and the investigation remains ongoing.
