Authorities Probe Whether Multiple Grizzlies Attacked Mother and Daughter Found Dead in Bella Coola
Search Ends in Two Deaths
The service said a bear attack may have involved more than one grizzly. An official also said investigators have not determined whether multiple bears were involved, and captured bears in the area will be examined.
Family and Community Remember Them
Balcarras’ brother, Matthew Balcarras, described her as strong and said she had lived in challenging, remote places, including Alaska, before moving to Bella Coola a few months ago. He also called her an artist who inspired him and his brothers.
A fundraiser organized by relative Mary Melissa Smith said Reed was 20. Balcarras had three young adult children and a grandchild, according to the fundraiser. The Central Coast Teachers’ Association said Balcarras joined its school community as a counselor in August. The association said she spent many hours building connections with students and supporting their well-being alongside teachers and staff.
Bear Encounters in Bella Coola
Bella Coola has a large population of grizzly and black bears, and bears are often seen near homes, Titchener said. She recalled fearing a bear attack when she learned the pair were missing in the area.
Key points
- Relatives reported Balcarras and Reed missing on Sunday; both bodies were found during the search.
- Authorities say multiple grizzlies may have been involved, but the number of bears remains uncertain.
- Reed was 20, and Balcarras had three young adult children and a grandchild.
- A grizzly attack in the area nearly a year ago badly injured one adult and three children.