Overview

• The incident occurred at 4:30 p.m. on July 26 when a couple e-biking on the Kootenay River trail startled two grizzlies, prompting a defensive attack.
• The wife deployed bear spray twice, driving both grizzlies away and likely preventing more severe injuries.
• The husband sustained significant injuries requiring surgery and is now recovering.
• Conservation officers closed three major trails, posted warning signs and set traps for monitoring but found no trace of the bears.
• Officials urged visitors in bear country to carry and know how to use bear spray as a proven deterrent against defensive encounters.