UPDATE: Sunday, 3:05 p.m.
No new information has arisen as to the whereabouts of the wounded grizzly bear.
Fernie Alpine Resort and Fernie Provincial Park staff have been made aware that the bear could have moved into more forested areas.
Conservation Officer Jeff Piwek explained that the grizzly bears appeared to be two siblings, approximately three years old. He further explained that when the RCMP and CO Service approached the bears, they showed no fear toward humans.
Piwek explained that it’s not uncommon for siblings to stick together at this age. He believes at this time that the bears were not necessarily emaciated (starving), but had become very comfortable around people in residential areas.
There were no attractants noted by authorities in the surroundings areas.
Anyone with information in regards to the whereabouts of the wounded grizzly is encouraged to call the RAPP line, at 1-877-952-7277.
No new information is available as to how the first bear was destoyed, or how the second was wounded.
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UPDATE: Friday, 12:20 p.m.
According to a release by RCMP, conservation officers attempted to euthanize two bears that were trying to gain entry into at least two homes on the Ski Hill while the residents were inside.
The bears appeared to be starving.
“Conservation Officers and RCMP were forced to euthanize the bears however one is unaccounted for and believed injured with a gun shot wound,” said RCMP Corporal R. Wright in a release.
“Conservation is continuing its efforts to locate the bear. Should any member of the public locate the bear which is believed to be in the area of the Fernie ski resort; do not approach and call 911.”
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Friday, 10:30 a.m.
Residents in the Highline Drive area of Fernie Alpine Resort are being told to stay in their homes as RCMP and conservation officers deal with a wounded Grizzly Bear.
“Elk Valley RCMP and conservation officers are currently dealing with a wounded Grizzly Bear in the Highline Drive area of the Fernie Ski Resort,” as per a release by RCMP at 11:00 a.m., Friday morning.
“Police and Conservation are requesting that residents of the area stay in their homes and the general public avoid the area until which time the bear is located.”
This story will be updated as more information comes available.
