The B.C. Conservation Officer Service (BCCOS) has issued an apology for causing confusion after revealing that the bear responsible for attacking a three-year-old girl in Maple Ridge was shot and killed by the RCMP earlier this month.
According to the BCCOS, the incident occurred on August 9 when a black bear attacked the girl while she was playing on the deck in her family’s backyard. The girl’s parent managed to chase the bear away during the attack.
Subsequently, Maple Ridge RCMP reported that the bear had returned multiple times to the area while officers were present, leading them to shoot the bear. However, a necropsy performed on the bear two days later confirmed that it was not the bear responsible for the attack.
In a recent video statement shared on social media, BCCOS Sgt. Jeremy Pauls clarified that, following further investigation, including DNA analysis, it was determined that the bear killed by officers was indeed the one involved in the attack. Pauls emphasized that no other bears were harmed in connection with the incident.
Pauls also expressed regret for the confusion caused by the initial assessment and acknowledged the quick response of the RCMP in ensuring public safety. He mentioned that the victim, who had sustained non-life-altering injuries according to RCMP reports, is currently recovering.
Maple Ridge RCMP stated that they are always looking to improve by reviewing incidents for opportunities to enhance officer training and equipment to better serve both officers and the public.
