Four grizzly bears have been killed after DNA tests confirmed they fatally attacked a mother and daughter on a trail minutes from their British Columbia home.
Jennifer Balcarras, 48, and her daughter Selah Reed, 20, were reported missing on November 1 after setting out to walk the Snooka West Trail near Bella Coola. The trail sits roughly a five-minute drive from where they lived. Balcarras had called family the day before, and relatives reported her missing the following morning when she failed to return and could not be reached.
Her body was discovered on November 2. Searchers recovered Reed’s remains the next day. Investigators soon examined whether bears were responsible for the deaths.
DNA testing concluded that a female grizzly bear and her three cubs carried out the attack. British Columbia Conservation Officer Service Inspector Jeff Tyre announced that the four animals were subsequently put down to protect public safety.
“This was a heartbreaking event for the families, the Nuxalk Nation and the Bella Coola community,” Tyre said. “We hope the efforts of everyone who responded, along with these findings, bring some measure of closure.”
Tyre also addressed the nature of the encounter, stating that the attack which resulted in the deaths of the two women “likely involved predatory behaviour, which I can tell you is very rare.” Investigators have not determined how the incident began, though they have established the full sequence of its lethal outcome. The bodies were found approximately 150 metres apart in the area surrounding the trail.
Jennifer’s brother Josh told CBC: “It’s surreal. It doesn’t seem real. It feels like a dream.”
He continued: “The way it starts is a few hours of not hearing from them. That turns into a day, and then a night … then a second night comes and it becomes a real thing.”
Her other brother, Matt, noted that she had recently relocated to the remote community of Bella Coola. The brothers emphasized that the walk had been casual and on a trail near their residence, not in a remote or secluded location far from others.
Jennifer Balcarras was a mother of four and a grandmother. Selah Reed was her youngest child.
The family has established a GoFundMe campaign to cover funeral expenses, with contributions nearing the stated target. The organizers wrote: “Any contribution, no matter how big or small, will make a meaningful difference and help give this family the opportunity to grieve without the added stress of overwhelming financial responsibilities.”
They added: “If you are unable to donate, sharing this fundraiser with others would also mean so much. Thank you for your kindness, generosity, and support during this incredibly difficult time. Every donation, share, and kind thought is deeply appreciated as we come together to support Jenny and Selah’s family.”
The Nuxalk Nation and Bella Coola community have been left grappling with the aftermath of the rare predatory attack in an area where residents might not expect such danger so close to home.