Man hospitalized, grizzly bear dead following encounter near Columbia Falls
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks reports a man shot and killed a grizzly bear after the animal charged him near Columbia Falls.
A man was forced to shoot and kill a grizzly bear in self-defense while berry-picking near Columbia Falls, Montana. The incident, which occurred about two miles north of the town in the Flathead National Forest, resulted in the man being hospitalized with undisclosed injuries. Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks (FWP) deemed the encounter a "surprise defensive" situation. They also offered valuable advice for staying "bear aware" when venturing into backcountry areas, emphasizing the importance of carrying bear spray, traveling in groups, making noise, and avoiding animal carcasses. Additionally, proper food storage, keeping attractants secure, and never approaching or feeding bears are crucial for both human and bear safety. For more detailed information, FWP directs people to their website, fwp.mt.gov/bear-aware.