The B.C. Conservation Officer Service (BCCOS) issued an apology for causing confusion, acknowledging that the RCMP had euthanized a bear following an attack on a three-year-old girl in Maple Ridge earlier this month. The incident occurred on Aug. 9 when the girl was playing on her family’s deck and was attacked by a black bear, prompting one of her parents to chase the bear away.
Subsequently, Maple Ridge RCMP reported that the bear returned multiple times while officers were present, leading to the decision to shoot the animal. However, a necropsy conducted on the bear two days later revealed that it was not the bear responsible for the attack, as initially believed.
In a video statement shared on social media, BCCOS Sgt. Jeremy Pauls confirmed that, following further investigation, including DNA analysis, it was determined that the bear euthanized was indeed the one involved in the attack. Pauls expressed regret for the earlier confusion caused by the BCCOS and commended the RCMP for their swift response to ensure public safety.
Pauls also provided an update on the victim, stating that despite the non-life-altering injuries reported by the RCMP, she is still in the process of recovery. Additionally, Maple Ridge RCMP stated that they are reviewing the incident to explore potential improvements in training and equipment to better support officers and the community.