On the morning of September 12, 2023, the Coquitlam Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) successfully rescued a black bear that had become trapped inside a vehicle parked in a residential driveway. The incident occurred at approximately 9:30 am on Lakeview Crescent, in the Burke Mountain area of Coquitlam, British Columbia.
Upon arriving at the scene, officers discovered the bear frantically attempting to escape from the vehicle, which had sustained significant damage to its interior. The animal had ripped through seats, destroyed the dashboard, and shattered windows in its desperate bid for freedom.
Undeterred by the bear's formidable presence and the extent of the damage, the officers swiftly devised a plan to safely extricate the animal. Utilizing specialized equipment, they carefully opened the vehicle's door and created a path for the bear to exit.
As the door swung open, the bear cautiously emerged from its confinement, its eyes wide with fear and confusion. To the relief of the officers and onlookers, the animal did not exhibit any signs of aggression and immediately retreated into the nearby forest.
The relieved homeowner, who had witnessed the ordeal from her home, expressed immense gratitude to the RCMP for their prompt and professional response. She praised their ability to resolve the situation without any harm to the animal or damage to her property.
Reflecting on the incident, the RCMP emphasized the importance of securing vehicles and property in bear-prone areas. They reminded residents to lock their doors, roll up their windows, and remove any food or attractants that could entice bears to approach.
"Bears are intelligent and resourceful animals, and they will exploit any opportunity to find food or shelter," said Constable Michael McLaughlin of the Coquitlam RCMP. "By taking simple precautions, we can minimize the risk of encounters and keep our communities safe."
The incident also highlighted the delicate balance between human habitation and wildlife conservation. While bears and other wildlife are an integral part of the local ecosystem, their presence can sometimes pose challenges for residents.
"We encourage people to appreciate and respect wildlife from a distance," said McLaughlin. "If you encounter a bear, remain calm, do not approach it, and give it space to leave."
By implementing these preventive measures and adhering to safety guidelines, residents of Coquitlam and other bear-prone areas can coexist with these magnificent creatures while preserving their well-being and the integrity of their property.
