Missing man in northern Manitoba believed to have been killed by bear

A 60-year-old man from Shamattawa First Nation is believed to have been killed by a bear, according to RCMP, only a week after police responded to another bear attack in the area.

Evidence from RCMP suggests that “animal predation had occurred.” RCMP Cpl. Julie Courchaine confirmed to CityNews Wednesday that, while an autopsy is underway, the evidence suggests that a bear was involved.

“It seems pretty clear that this is an animal attack of some form and likely a predatory attack,” said Michael Campbell, a professor of environmental, Earth and resources at the University of Manitoba.

“This surprises a lot of people, but black bears are more likely to be predatory than grizzly bears.”

Black bear attacks on humans are extremely rare in Manitoba. There have only been three fatal black bear attacks documented in the province’s history, occurring in 1929, 1982 and most recently in 2005.

“Most of the research has shown that where black bears attack in a predacious fashion, it’s in relatively isolated places. It isn’t typically the bears that are around people a lot that engages in that behaviour,” explained Campbell.

According to conservation officers, between January 1 and July 30, 2024, there were 744 reports of bear interactions, up from 465 reports between that time in 2023.

“Certainly when you’re in black bear country, make your presence known. Walk in groups, make noise, talk loudly, those types of things, just to allow any kind of wildlife, not even just bears, but other wildlife to know that you’re there,” said Chris Benson, the programs and events coordinator for the Manitoba Wildlife Federation.

If you do encounter a black bear, Benson says to give the bear space.

“No sudden movements. Certainly, if you have dogs, they should be on a leash, because smaller dogs and other animals that you have could invoke an attack as a dog is barking or chasing after the bear. You want to keep those animals close to you,” said Benson.

Campbell added, “Be aware of your circumstances. Don’t wear earbuds when you’re hiking, have bear spray on your person and pay attention to signs that there might be bears in the area.”