On Sunday, Oct. 18 prior to 2 p.m., Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) officers received a report from a local hospital and Washington State Patrol of a human-black bear incident that occurred at the property of a rural residence outside of Cusick in Pend Oreille County. An adult female sustained injuries and was initially treated at a local hospital, then transferred to a Spokane hospital for continued treatment and monitoring.
Officers learned that the afternoon prior, the victim’s spouse was lawfully hunting black bear on their private property off Reynolds Creek Road. A black bear was shot with a crossbow and ran away. The couple both went to look for the animal the following morning with their dog. The black bear was located and chased the dog and attacked the adult female. The couple immediately drove to the local hospital.
At approximately 3 p.m., WDFW officers, alongside a U.S. Forest Service officer and a Kalispel Tribal officer, responded to the scene. Officers located a black bear near where the incident occurred with the aid of dogs. A WDFW officer lethally removed the animal, due to the attack, nature of its injuries, and to ensure public safety.
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The animal was transported to the Washington Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory in Pullman for evaluation.
In Washington state, the only recorded fatal black bear attack on a human was reported in 1974. Since 1970, state authorities have recorded more than 20 human-black bear encounters that resulted in a documented injury.
Safety guidance for bear encounters
WDFW officials offer the following advice to minimize the risk of injury if a bear is encountered:
In general bears avoid people, but they are naturally curious animals. If a bear walks toward you, identify yourself as a human by standing up, waving your hands above your head, and talking in a low voice. Back away, avoiding direct eye contact. Do not run from a bear. WDFW recommends making noise and leashing pets while hiking. Be aware of your surroundings so as not to accidentally startle a bear. While recreating, WDFW recommends carrying bear spray that is readily accessible and knowing how to use it. More information on how to use bear spray is available on WDFW's blog.
BearWise® provides resources to help people coexist with black bears. Find their resources online at WDFW’s Bear Resources page.
In the fall, black bears may be especially drawn to human-provided attractants like garbage cans, pet and livestock food, bird feeders, orchards, and barbeque grills as they prepare for winter. You can help keep bears wild and reduce the risk of human-wildlife conflict by securing attractants at your home or on your property. Learn more at wdfw.wa.gov/blackbears.
