One person has been found dead following a suspected grizzly bear attack near Bella Coola, as search efforts continue for a second missing individual.

According to a social media post by the BC Conservation Officer Service (BCCOS), officers are in Bella Coola investigating a suspected fatal bear attack in the Snooka West Trail area.

BCCOS said the individual was located deceased in the Snooka West Trail area on Monday, Nov. 2, in the afternoon after search efforts involving the RCMP and Bella Coola Valley Search and Rescue (SAR). The pair were reported missing by family members on Nov. 1. BCCOS was called in after evidence at the scene suggested an animal may have been involved.

“Our thoughts are with the family of the victims during this tragic time. We are in contact with the family to offer any support we can as we continue to investigate this incident,” BCCOS Insp. Jeff Tyre said.

“We urge people to stay away from Snooka West Trail area for their own safety. We appreciate people’s concerns and the desire to assist, but it is critical the public stay out of the area – both due to the danger and to allow officers to do their work.”

According to the post, BCCOS has deployed all available resources to locate and trap any bears that may have been involved. Officers are assessing the site and collecting and analyzing evidence.

In a video, Tyre added that no bears have been captured at this time.

BCCOS said that any bears captured will be assessed to determine the appropriate next steps. If a bear is determined to be responsible for the attack, it will be dispatched to ensure public safety, in accordance with provincial human-wildlife conflict response guidelines.

The investigation involves the BC Coroners Service, Bella Coola RCMP, Bella Coola Valley Search and Rescue and Nuxalk Nation liaisons.

The government agency added that further updates are expected as the investigation continues.