Haines woman seriously injured by bear on Mt. Riley Road

A Haines resident is being treated in Juneau for serious injuries after a bear attacked her on Mt. Riley Road early Saturday, Aug. 29. The Alaska Department of Fish and Game said investigators found food waste dumped near the road that may have drawn the animal. Initial reports described the bear as a brown bear, but ADF&G said the species will be confirmed only after genetic testing is complete.

The woman was walking a leashed dog when the bear attacked her from behind. She returned home and called 911 after the bear retreated. Her injuries are serious but not life-threatening.

The Haines Borough has closed the Lily Lake Trail. ADF&G is recommending extra caution for anyone in the area.

ADF&G biologists, an Alaska Wildlife Trooper and Haines Police Department personnel returned to the site. The initial investigation points to a defensive response by the bear rather than a predatory attack. Bear sign was evident, but no bears were seen.

Samples collected at the scene will go to the ADF&G Gene Conservation Lab in Anchorage, which will verify the species and sex of the animal and may identify the individual bear. No date has been given for results.

Alaska News previously reported that Alaska Wildlife Troopers and Haines Borough Police searched the area Saturday and could not locate or identify the bear.

Given the suspected role of food waste in the attack, ADF&G is advising Haines residents to secure common bear attractants. Dispose of fish carcasses and other waste appropriately. Store garbage, livestock feed and pet food indoors rather than outside. The agency also recommends carrying a deterrent such as bear spray or a firearm and knowing how to use it, traveling in groups on trails, making noise to avoid surprising a bear, and keeping pets leashed when possible.

Unusual wildlife behavior can be reported to the Douglas ADF&G office at 907-465-4265.