# Black bear attack in Trinity County, California

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/black-bear-attack-in-trinity-county-california
> Updated: 2026-09-27T01:28:05.000Z. Sources: 13. Developments: 2.

On September 19, a cinnamon-colored black bear attacked Jeff and Mallory Wilson in their backyard at a property in Trinity County, California. Jeff Wilson sustained two broken ribs and various bite and claw wounds, while Mallory Wilson suffered serious injuries to her head, face, and hand.

The couple’s French bulldog, Cassie, intervened to protect them from the animal. During the struggle, the bear inflicted severe spinal and bodily injuries on the dog. Despite undergoing emergency veterinary surgery, Cassie passed away two days after the encounter.

The owners suggested the attack may have been unprovoked, potentially occurring because the bear felt cornered between a fence and a gate. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife is investigating the incident, noting that black bear attacks on humans are rare in the state. A GoFundMe campaign has been established to help the Wilsons cover medical and veterinary expenses.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-27: Black bear attack in California injures couple and kills pet dog

A black bear attack in Trinity County, California, injured a couple and killed their French bulldog, which died after intervening to protect its owners from the animal.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/black-bear-attack-in-california-injures-couple-and-kills-pet-dog

### 2026-09-24: California couple survives bear attack after French bulldog Cassie dies saving them

A French bulldog named Cassie died after heroically protecting her owners from a cinnamon bear attack at their home in Trinity County, California.

11 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/california-couple-attacked-by-bear-in-trinity-county

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Cite as: Black bear attack in Trinity County, California. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/black-bear-attack-in-trinity-county-california