VIDEO: 3 year old mauled by bear in the Lower Mainland
Published 2:45 pm Sunday, August 9, 2026
A three-year-old girl was airlifted to hospital after she was mauled by a bear in Maple Ridge.
The incident happened on a residential property at 11:30 a.m. in the 12300 block of 240 Street on Sunday morning, Aug. 9.
The child was transported to hospital via air ambulance “out of an abundance of caution due to her age” an RCMP statement said.
She is currently in hospital with non-life-altering injuries.
While officers were on scene, the bear returned to the residence and the immediate area multiple times, showing a high degree of interest in the location.
Around noon officers came into contact with the bear.
“As the bear had showed signs of aggression and already attacked a small child, officers made the decision to discharge a firearm in an effort to protect public safety in the immediate area” RCMP said.
The bear was struck but continued to flee into a wooded area.
BC Conservation Officers arrived on scene and were assisted by RCMP officers.
At approximately 12:40pm, 240 Street was blocked from 123 Avenue to 125 Avenue.
BC Conservation Officers continue to make assessments and evaluations to track the bear and have the lead on acquiring the aggressive animal.
Officials continue to advise the public in the surrounding area to be aware and stay indoors.
Anyone with further sightings or to report an any aggressive or threatening bear is asked to contact the BC Conservation Officer Service at 1-877-952-7277 (RAPP).
While wildlife encounters are not uncommon in Maple Ridge, officials take this opportunity to remind residents to stay vigilant and use precaution around all types of wildlife.