Grizzly Captured for Forensic Testing After Bella Coola Killings

Overview

• The BC Conservation Officer Service says one grizzly has been captured and is undergoing forensic DNA matching, physical measurements, and veterinary assessment to determine any link to the deaths of a mother and daughter near Bella Coola.
• Investigators are collecting trace evidence from the scene such as saliva, blood, and hair and will compare the new DNA profile with samples retained from a November 2025 grizzly incident in the same valley.
• Forensic experts describe the lab work as analogous to human crime‑scene DNA methods, using small amounts of genetic material to create profiles that can be checked against captured animals.
• Conservation officers continue trapping in the area, have urged the public to avoid the West Snooka Trail, and are coordinating closely with the Nuxalk Nation, RCMP, victims’ families, and provincial wildlife veterinarians.
• If testing confirms a bear was responsible it will be dispatched to protect public safety, and any animals shown not to be involved will be released back into the environment as trapping continues.