Bear Mauling Reported To Troopers At Westernmost Ahtna Village Of Cantwell

Bicyclist Reports Brown Bear Attack On Jack River In Cantwell 

Location: Cantwell
Type: Bear Mauling

Dispatch Text:
On 10/20/2021, at approximately 1237 hours, Alaska Wildlife Troopers in Cantwell were notified of a possible bear mauling that occurred on 10/19/2021, at approximately 0930 hours. The victim stated he was riding his bicycle alone along the riverbed of the Jack River, which is near the confluence of the Nenana River.

The victim estimates he was approximately 400 yards from the Parks Highway around MP 215. He reported seeing a brown bear 10-15 yards away, running towards him. The victim stated that he jumped off his bicycle and began yelling at the bear. Just prior to the bear making contact, the victim fell to the ground and onto his back, covered his head and believes he kicked at the bear. The bear made contact and bit the victims lower right leg, just below his knee.

The bear made one contact and one bite then immediately retreated into the vegetation the same way it approached. After the bear left the area, he walked to the highway and called a friend for a ride. The victim stated he went to the Healy Medical Clinic for treatment of puncture wounds and a laceration, and did not seek further medical treatment. The victim stated he did not notice anything out of the ordinary prior to the mauling but did say he noticed bear tracks in the snow. He believes the bear was alone and approximates the bears weight at 500lbs. He was carrying a firearm but did not discharge the weapon. No additional response or investigation is required at this time.