No indication grizzly was ‘stalking or hunting’ couple before attack: B.C. officials

A grizzly bear roams near Beaver Lake in Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, Wednesday July 6, 2011. (AP / Jim Urquhart)

Officials have completed their investigation into a grizzly bear attack that seriously injured a man in B.C. over the weekend, finding no need to try to trap or kill the animal.

A couple were riding e-bikes around Kootenay Lake in Creston on Saturday “likely startled the two bears in a surprise encounter on a corner of the trail, which is bordered by thick brush,” the B.C. Conservation Officer Service said in an update Monday.

The pair were carrying bear spray, which allowed the woman to fend both animals off. The man required transport to hospital and surgery for unspecified but significant injuries from which he is expected to recover, according to the BC COS.

“No evidence was found to suggest either bear had been stalking or hunting the couple. There were no reports of bear activity or aggressive bear behaviour in the area prior to the Saturday afternoon attack,” the agency said.

Because the attack was “defensive in nature” no further steps will be taken.

The BC COS is commending the couple for being prepared.

“They had bear spray, had it readily accessible, and knew how to use it,” said Insp. Dave Webster, in a statement.

“We’d like to recognize these actions and encourage anyone hiking, biking or recreating in bear country to take similar precautions.”

Trails in the area remain closed.