(FORT SEVERN, ON) – A Fort Severn man is recovering after bravely protecting his wife from a polar bear attack in the early hours of Tuesday, December 3. The man suffered serious injuries to his arms and legs but is expected to make a full recovery.
Officers from the Nishnawbe Aski Police Service, stationed in Fort Severn First Nation, were dispatched to a residence following reports of gunfire and a polar bear sighting.
Upon arrival, officers found a deceased polar bear and learned that the injured man had already been taken to the local nursing station for treatment.
Terrifying Predawn Incident
The incident unfolded just before 5 a.m. when the couple exited their home to search for their dogs. In the driveway, a polar bear suddenly lunged at the woman, knocking her to the ground.
Acting instinctively, her husband jumped onto the bear to protect her.
The bear then turned its attack on the man, inflicting serious injuries to his arms and legs.
Neighbor Intervenes to End the Attack
A nearby neighbor, alerted by the commotion, arrived armed with a firearm. The neighbor fired multiple shots at the bear, causing it to retreat into a wooded area, where it succumbed to its injuries.
Community on Alert
Police conducted patrols following the attack to ensure no other bears posed a threat to the community.
Polar Bear Interactions Increasing
Polar bear sightings in northern Ontario communities are not uncommon, particularly as changing environmental conditions affect the bears’ hunting grounds. Authorities urge residents to remain vigilant and report bear sightings to local police immediately.
Fort Severn or Wasaho Cree Nation is Ontario’s most northerly community.
