The B.C. Conservation Officer Service (BCCOS) has issued an apology for the confusion surrounding the recent incident in Maple Ridge, where the RCMP had to euthanize a bear that had attacked a three-year-old girl. Initially, the BCCOS reported that the bear responsible for the attack had been killed by the RCMP after the girl was attacked while playing on her family’s deck. Subsequently, a necropsy revealed that the bear shot by the officers was not the culprit.
In a recent video statement on social media, BCCOS Sgt. Jeremy Pauls confirmed that, following a thorough investigation involving additional evidence gathering and DNA analysis, it was determined that the bear euthanized by the officers was indeed the one that had attacked the girl. Pauls expressed regret for the initial misinformation and commended the RCMP for their prompt response to ensure public safety during the incident.
The victim, who was initially reported to have suffered non-life-altering injuries, is said to be recovering. Maple Ridge RCMP stated that they are constantly evaluating incidents to enhance training and equipment for the benefit of both officers and the public.