Canada News
Mother and daughter found dead in suspected grizzly bear attack in B.C.
ASM, Philippine Canadian Inquirer
November 05, 2026
Photo courtesy: CBS News
A mother and daughter have been found dead near Bella Coola, British Columbia, following a suspected grizzly bear attack that prompted a search operation and warnings to stay away from a nearby hiking trail.
Family members identified the victims as Jennifer “Jenny” Balcarras, 48, and her daughter, Selah Reed.
The pair were reported missing on Sunday, November 1, after failing to return from a walk near the Snooka West Trail, about eight kilometres east of Bella Coola.
Search crews discovered Balcarras’ remains on Monday afternoon. Her daughter was found dead the following afternoon, ending the search for the missing pair.
The B.C. Conservation Officer Service said evidence at the scene suggested a bear may have been involved. However, investigators have not established whether one or multiple bears were responsible.
Conservation officers are working to locate and capture any bears potentially connected to the deaths. Authorities said any captured animals would be assessed, and a bear confirmed to have been involved would be euthanized under provincial public safety guidelines.
Inspector Jeff Tyre of the Conservation Officer Service extended condolences to the victims’ families and confirmed that the investigation remains ongoing.
Balcarras worked as an art therapist and was remembered by relatives for her love of art, music and the outdoors. Family members described Reed as gentle and quiet, with interests in ballet, hiking and art.
The deaths have deeply affected the Bella Coola community, which experienced another serious grizzly bear incident in November 2025. That attack involved a group of schoolchildren and teachers, leaving several people injured.
Nuxalk Nation elected Chief Samuel Schooner acknowledged the emotional impact of the latest incident on the victims’ relatives and residents still affected by the previous attack.
Authorities continue to urge the public to avoid the Snooka West Trail area while conservation officers investigate and search for the bear or bears potentially involved.
