Bear Hunt Continues in Index After Sunday Attack Left Woman With Serious Injuries
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife officers and Snohomish County deputies are still searching for the animal that mauled a hiker near U.S. 2 on Sunday morning.
By Tomas Rahman ·
A search for a bear is underway in the Index area of Washington state after an animal attacked a woman on Sunday morning. State fish and wildlife officers and local law enforcement are working to locate the animal to ensure public safety in a region popular for hiking.
The incident began around 7:50 a.m. when Sultan police officers responded to a report in the 49400 block of Index-Galena Road near U.S. 2. A resident encountered a mother bear and her cub and was subsequently attacked. According to a media release from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, the bear knocked the woman down from behind. It then bit and clawed at her while she was on the ground.
The woman managed to reach her home and called for help. State officials described her injuries as serious but not life-threatening. She was transported to a hospital for medical attention.
On Sunday, state officers and Snohomish County deputies used dogs to track the bear. The agency reported that these efforts were unsuccessful. A trap has now been set in the vicinity, and wildlife police plan to increase patrols in the area. As of Monday, a department spokesperson confirmed that officers are still attempting to locate the animal.
The attack occurred near the fork in the Skykomish River, close to trailheads for hikes to Lake Serene and Bridal Veil Falls. Sultan police have urged residents to exercise caution in the area. They advised people to report bear encounters to their non-emergency line at 425-407-3999 or to the Department of Fish and Wildlife at 360-902-2936.
The Department of Fish and Wildlife provided specific guidance for hikers to minimize injury risks. If a bear approaches, the agency recommends standing up, waving hands above the head, and speaking in a low voice to identify oneself as human. Hikers should back away while avoiding direct eye contact and should not run. The department also suggests making noise, leashing pets, and carrying readily accessible bear spray that the user knows how to operate.
Source: Everett Herald
