Hiker in hospital after bear attack in Crowsnest Pass
CBC
A Calgary man is in hospital after a bear attacked him while hiking in the Crowsnest Pass Friday morning, according to Alberta RCMP.
Cst. Cory Riggs, an RCMP public information officer, said the 45-year-old man was hiking alone in a remote area near Window Mountain Lake, which is located near the Alberta/B.C. border, about 25 kilometres northwest of Coleman, Alta.
He used a Garmin SOS device to signal for help, Riggs said.
An RCMP news release issued Saturday described the man's injuries as "extensive."
RCMP said several agencies helped with the rescue, including STARS air ambulance, which flew the man to hospital in Calgary, where he is being treated for his injuries.
Friday's mauling comes just two weeks after a man was attacked by a female grizzly bear near Calgary. RCMP did not specify whether the latest incident involved a grizzly or black bear.
RCMP say the incident highlights the importance of preparation whenever hikers head out to remote areas — alone or with others.
"No matter what your experience level is, while exploring the wilderness, SOS devices are an essential tool for anyone who may find themselves in an emergency situation. It is the most reliable way to call for help after sustaining an injury in an isolated area," the RCMP release said.
Police advise that hikers always make sure others know their planned route, along with the time of departure and approximate return.
A city councillor is suggesting the City of Calgary do an external review of how its operations and council decisions are being impacted by false information spread online and through other channels. Coun. Courtney Walcott said he plans to bring forward a motion to council, calling for its support for a review. He said he's not looking for real time fact checking but rather, a review that looks back at the role misinformation played on key issues. Walcott cited two instances in 2024 where factually incorrect information was circulated both online and at in-person meetings regarding major city projects: council's decision to upzone much of the city, and the failed redevelopment proposal for Glenmore Landing. "Looking back on previous years, looking back on major events and finding out how pervasive misinformation and bad information is out there and it's influence on all levels of the public discourse is really important," said Walcott.