Powell River RCMP is investigating, along with the BC Coroners Service, the discovery of human remains in a remote area on August 16.
According to Powell River RCMP staff sergeant Rod Wiebe, at this point, there is nothing to suggest that the deceased was killed by a bear, but because of the exposed nature of the remains, it appears that the remains were subject to wildlife scavengers.
“Coincidentally, a bear was shot by BC Conservation Service in the area, but again, nothing suggesting that both incidents are linked,” stated Wiebe in a media release.
According to a written statement from the Conservation Officer Service, conservation officers are assisting Powell River RCMP and the BC Coroners Service after the discovery of human remains in the Wildwood area.
Conservation officers are investigating if an animal attack may have been involved in this incident, according to the statement.
A black bear in the area, which had been linked to multiple reports of aggressive and potentially predatory behaviour toward people, was put down by conservation officers prior to the remains being found, according to the statement, and at this time, there is no confirmation that the two incidents are linked.
The trails in the area will remain closed at this time as the investigation continues.
As the investigation is ongoing, the conservation officer service is unable to provide additional details, the statement concluded.
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