The B.C. Conservation Officer Service (BCCOS) has issued an apology for the confusion caused, revealing that the RCMP had euthanized a bear that attacked a three-year-old girl in Maple Ridge earlier this month. The incident occurred on August 9 when the girl was playing on her family’s deck and was attacked by a black bear. A parent was able to scare the bear away.
Subsequently, Maple Ridge RCMP reported that the bear returned multiple times while officers were present, leading them to shoot the bear. However, a necropsy performed on the bear two days later showed that it was not the bear responsible for the attack.
In a video statement shared on social media, BCCOS Sgt. Jeremy Pauls confirmed that after further investigation, including DNA analysis, it was determined that the bear which was dispatched was indeed the one involved in the attack. Pauls expressed regret for the initial confusion and praised the quick response of the RCMP in ensuring public safety.
The victim, who was reported to have suffered non-life-altering injuries by the RCMP, is still in the process of recovery. Following the incorrect assessment by BCCOS, Maple Ridge RCMP stated that they always reassess incidents to identify potential improvements in training or equipment for the benefit of officers and the community.
