Several Port Coquitlam residents have taken to Facebook to complain about an alleged shooting in the nose of a black bear in their neighbourhood.
The incident reportedly occurred on Wednesday (Sept. 21) on Finley Street, with photos of bloodied garbage cans posted on the social media site before they were removed.
However, the B.C. Conservation Officer Service said it's still investigating the incident and doesn't have any further information.
"We're trying to figure out what exactly happened and make sure the bear is not suffering," said CO Evelyn Robertson.
She said the exact injury the bear suffered or its current state of health is unknown.
There haven't been any sightings of injured bears in the neighbourhood, she said.
Robertson encourages anyone who has seen bears in the area or an injured bear to immediately call the RAPP (Report all Poachers and Polluters) Line at 1-877-952-7277
As there are no details as to what exactly happened, Robertson could not say what the consequences might be.
She could not confirm, for example, the address or if COs have removed any firearms.
Still, a number of residents have reported their concerns; some said they heard shots.
And, while the exact nature of the incident is not yet confirmed, the issue has many people outraged.
"It's horrible," said Dave Cole, who contacted the Tri-City News after hearing about the incident through a friend.
"I just can’t imagine. I'm just wondering if this bear is seriously injured."
Meanwhile, Robertson reiterated that it's important to stay vigilant and report if you see an injured bear in the area of Finley Street and Prairie Avenue or the rural areas on the city's northern side.
"We haven’t had any reports of the bear in the area," Robertson said. "We really need the public, if they see bears, to call RAPP line and we can try to track them."
