Canadian officials are searching for one or more grizzly bears after a mother and daughter were found dead in Bella Coola, British Columbia, in what appears to be a bear attack. The Conservation Officer Service in British Columbia stated that multiple grizzlies may have been involved.
Inspector Jeff Tyre of the service reported that a second set of remains was discovered on Tuesday afternoon during a search by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and conservation officers. This discovery followed the initial finding of remains on Monday.
Family members had reported art therapist Jenny Balcarras and her daughter, Selah Reed, missing on Sunday. Balcarras’ brother, Matthew Balcarras, described his sister as “incredibly strong,” noting she had lived in remote locations, including Alaska, before moving to Bella Coola a few months prior to the incident.
Authorities have implemented a curfew in the community, located approximately 620 miles north of Vancouver, as the search for the animal or animals responsible continues. Inspector Tyre confirmed that any captured bears would be assessed, and if identified as the aggressor, would be euthanized to ensure public safety.
A fundraiser established by relative Mary Melissa Smith described Reed as having “her whole life ahead of her.” Balcarras also leaves behind three adult children and a grandchild.
The Central Coast Teachers’ Association shared on social media that Balcarras had joined their school community as a counselor in August, dedicating significant time to supporting student well-being and collaborating with staff.
This incident follows a similar attack nearly a year ago in the same region, where a grizzly bear injured one adult and three children from a group of elementary school students and teachers. The bear involved in that attack was not apprehended.
Kim Titchener, founder of Bear Safety & More Inc., expressed concern upon seeing initial reports on social media, anticipating a potential bear attack given the location where the women went missing. She noted that increased human-bear conflicts can be linked to habitat loss and food stress due to drought and climate change affecting bear populations in British Columbia. Bella Coola is known for its significant grizzly and black bear population, and encounters near residential areas are not uncommon.