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Bella Coola grizzly bear attack investigation continues
Authorities in British Columbia are investigating a suspected grizzly bear attack that killed 48-year-old Jennifer Balcarras and her 20-year-old daughter, Selah Reed, near Bella Coola. The victims disappeared while walking on the Snooka West Trail, and their remains were recovered by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and the BC Conservation Officer Service (BCCOS).
Officials have captured one grizzly bear and are conducting forensic DNA matching, physical measurements, and other assessments to determine if it was involved in the fatal attack. The BCCOS stated that any bear confirmed to be responsible will be dispatched to ensure public safety, while unrelated bears will be released.
The incident occurred only a few kilometers from where a grizzly attacked a group of schoolchildren and teachers in November 2025, an event that left eleven people injured. Investigators are comparing forensic evidence from both incidents to see if the same animal is responsible. The Nuxalk Nation has reported that the killings are deeply triggering for a community still healing from the previous year's attack.
Entities
BC Conservation Officer Service · Bella Coola · British Columbia · British Columbia Conservation Officer Service · Jennifer Balcarras · Jenny Balcarras · Nuxalk Nation · Selah Reed