The Conservation Officer Service in British Columbia stated that more than one grizzly bear may have been involved in an attack that left a mother and daughter dead in Bella Coola. Inspector Jeff Tyre reported in a video message that the second body was located on Tuesday afternoon during a search by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and conservation officers. This search followed the discovery of the first set of remains the previous day.
Tyre noted that it is “not yet clear if more than one bear was involved” and stated that any bears captured in the area will be assessed. If the “offending bear” is caught, Tyre said it will be killed to ensure public safety.
Family members of art therapist Jenny Balcarras and her daughter, Selah Reed, reported the women missing on Sunday. Matthew Balcarras, the brother of the deceased, said on Wednesday that his sister was “incredibly strong” and had lived in various remote locations, including Alaska, before relocating to Bella Coola a few months ago. He described her as a beautiful artist who served as an inspiration to him and his brothers.
The attack occurred in an area known for its large population of black and grizzly bears, where residents commonly see bears near their homes. Kim Titchener, founder of Bear Safety & More Inc, expressed concern upon seeing reports of the missing women on Facebook, stating her heart dropped because she knew a bear attack was a possibility. Titchener noted that the community has suffered significantly since a grizzly attack on 20 elementary school students and teachers in the same area last November, which left one adult and three children badly injured. The animal from that incident was never captured.
Titchener explained that grizzly bears can be particularly aggressive during this time of year as they build fat reserves for winter hibernation. She also cited “concerning pressures” on British Columbia bear populations due to habitat loss and food stress caused by drought and climate change, which she said can lead to more human conflicts. Titchener stated she does not know if Bella Coola suffered from any drought issues, but confirmed other parts of the province did.
