Statement on aggressive bear euthanization

October 22, 2026 - Castlegar, British Columbia
From: Castlegar RCMP

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On October 19, 2026, at approximately 4:36 p.m., Castlegar RCMP received a report of an aggressive bear near a school playground in Castlegar, B.C. The caller reported that the collared bear had charged two young children and an adult male.

Frontline officers attended the area and located the bear. Upon police arrival, the bear initially ran toward the responding police vehicle before moving through the neighbourhood. Officers monitored and followed the animal to a residential property in the 700 block of 5th Avenue, where it was observed feeding from fruit trees.

After consulting with the BC Conservation Officer Service, it was determined that the bear posed an ongoing threat to public safety and would need to be euthanized.

After the officer euthanized the animal, the BC Conservation Officer Service attended the scene and removed the carcass.

“The Castlegar RCMP recognizes that incidents involving wildlife can be distressing for the community. Public safety was the primary consideration in this response, and the decision was made in consultation with our partners after the bear exhibited aggressive behaviour toward multiple individuals, including children,” said Staff Sergeant Monty Taylor of the Castlegar RCMP.

Contacts