Black bear killed in Squamish after attacking hiker

A black bear was killed after it attacked a hiker and harassed others near Squamish Sunday night.

The animal encountered a woman on the Coho Trail near the second trestle bridge around 7 p.m. Aug. 20, according to a BC Conservation Officer Service media release.

“As she attempted to retreat by jumping down to one side of the bridge, the bear followed and swatted her,” the release reads. “The woman used a piece of lumber to defend herself. A passing cyclist came to her aid and helped fight the bear off. The bear disengaged but continued to follow the pair.”

The woman’s injuries weren't serious.

Conservation and RCMP officers swept the area but did not immediately locate the bear.

The investigation led conservation officers to determine the bear approached two other groups in the same area, in separate incidents, shortly after the first attack.

“The bear also followed the groups but they managed to scare it away,” the release reads.

Officers eventually did track down the bear.

“One black bear in the vicinity of the attack site was killed on Sunday. Based on witness descriptions, physical evidence and location, conservation officers believe it is the bear responsible for the attack. No other bears were seen during a sweep of the area.”

The Coho Trail will remain closed to the public until at least Thursday.

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