A black bear attack in Stoney Hill Regional Park on Vancouver Island led to the park’s closure on Friday. The incident occurred when a hiker with off-leash dogs encountered a female black bear and a cub just before 10 a.m. PT, according to the B.C. Conservation Officer Service (BCCOS).

The adult bear went after the dogs, prompting the woman to intervene, resulting in undisclosed injuries. Following a search of the area by conservation officers and the RCMP, no bear was found. As a precaution, the park was closed in collaboration with the Cowichan Valley Regional District.

The BCCOS deemed the attack as defensive and decided against pursuing the bear. Warning signs have been installed, and the dogs involved in the incident survived. The public is advised to take preventive measures such as traveling in groups, leashing pets, and carrying bear spray to minimize human-wildlife conflicts.