Woman Injured in Black Bear Attack in Washington State

A woman in Snohomish County, Washington, was hospitalized with serious injuries after a black bear attacked her while she was walking her dog on Sunday morning. The incident occurred around 7:50 a.m. in the woman's backyard, according to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW).

The woman told authorities that the bear, identified as a mother bear, approached her from behind and pushed her to the ground before clawing at her. She managed to get up and retreat into her home, where she called for help. She was transported to a local hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries and stayed overnight.

Deputies and WDFW officials responded to the scene to locate the bear. While searching, they observed two black bears in the vicinity – a large adult and a younger bear. Despite efforts including the use of hounds to track scents, the bears were not found. A trap has since been set up near the attack site.

A WDFW spokesperson stated that the woman did not provoke the animal and that officials are investigating what might have attracted the bear to the area. "This is incredibly rare. I've been doing this 22 years, and I can count on one hand the number of attacks I've seen like this," Lt. Erik Olson of WDFW Police told KOMO News. The agency will decide on further actions if the bear is located, which could include relocation or tagging.

Residents in the area have reported an increase in bear sightings recently. One neighbor, who identified herself only as Bonnie, told FOX 13 that bears frequently enter her property, sometimes coming within feet of her patio. "They are just all over. Don’t put garbage outside. If you think it’s locked, you know, be cautious. They might be able to break it. They are pretty hungry this year," Bonnie said.

WDFW officials are reminding residents to secure attractants such as garbage cans, bird feeders, grills, and pet or livestock food to prevent bears from becoming accustomed to human proximity as they prepare for hibernation. The department advises people who encounter a black bear to stand tall, wave their arms, speak in a low voice, and back away slowly without making direct eye contact. Running from a bear is strongly discouraged.

Authorities have also urged the public to avoid approaching the mother bear and her cub if they are spotted in the vicinity.