Daijiworld Media Network - Canada

Canada, Nov 22: A grizzly bear attacked a group of schoolchildren and teachers on a walking trail in Bella Coola, British Columbia, Thursday afternoon, leaving 11 people injured, including two in critical condition.

The Nuxalk Nation said the "aggressive bear" remained on the loose Thursday evening, with police and conservation officers on the scene. “Officers are armed. Remain indoors and off the highway,” the First Nation warned on social media.

Emergency Health Services spokesman Brian Twaites said two people were critically injured, two seriously injured, and the others were treated at the scene. Parent Veronica Schooner recounted that one male teacher bore the brunt of the attack and was airlifted from the site.

Her 10-year-old son Alvarez, among the fourth- and fifth-graders, was so close to the bear that he “even felt its fur.” He witnessed the attack targeting others and was limping from running to safety. Despite the trauma, Alvarez was concerned for his classmates, immediately praying for their well-being.

Acwsalcta School, run by the Nuxalk First Nation, announced it would remain closed Friday and provide counseling support. “It’s hard to know what to say during this very difficult time. We are so grateful for our team and our students,” the school said on Facebook.