3-year

3-year-old girl hospitalized after Maple Ridge, B.C., bear attack

Girl suffered non-life-altering injuries, RCMP say

A bear attack in Maple Ridge, B.C., on Sunday has left a three-year-old girl in hospital.

Maple Ridge RCMP said the attack happened around 11:30 a.m. PT, outside the girl's home on 240 Street near 124 Avenue.

According to the B.C. Conservation Officer Service, the girl was playing on the deck in her family's back yard when the attack happened.

A parent intervened and chased the bear away, it added.

The RCMP said in a statement the girl was taken to hospital via air ambulance "out of an abundance of caution due to her age."

"She is currently in hospital with non-life-altering injuries."

Police said the bear showed a "high degree of interest" in the area, returning several times while officers were on site.

Around noon, officers encountered the bear and shot it, "to protect public safety," as "the bear had showed signs of aggression and already attacked a small child," the RCMP said.

The bear was hit, and fled into a wooded area, police said.

A B.C. Conservation Officer Service predator attack team has taken over efforts to track the bear.

People in the surrounding area are being advised to stay alert and stay indoors.

Anyone who sees the bear is asked to contact the B.C. Conservation Officer Service at 1-877-952-7277.