New Brunswick trapper survives violent black bear attack

Serge Guitard, a 75-year-old experienced trapper, survived a violent black bear attack while foraging for wild blueberries near Bathurst, New Brunswick. The incident occurred on September 6 when a bear charged Guitard at close range.

During the struggle, Guitard lost consciousness and was pinned beneath the animal. He managed to defend himself using a knife, which allowed him to end the attack and break free. Despite suffering severe head injuries and requiring emergency surgery with over 80 points of suture, Guitard was able to walk to his vehicle and drive himself to a hospital for treatment.

Provincial wildlife officials noted that while such attacks are rare in New Brunswick, the encounter highlights the risks of wildlife interactions during the autumn foraging season when bears are actively seeking food.