Bear Attacks High School Student on Way Home

The attack occurred at around 7:15 p.m. near Sakashita Bridge in the Sakashita area of Nakatsugawa. A first-year male high school student was scratched on the head and back by the bear while on his way home. He managed to flee into a nearby house and was taken to a hospital. His injuries are not life-threatening.

The incident took place in a residential area near JR Sakashita Station on the Chuo Line, prompting concern among local residents.

"I’ve lived here for 80 years, and this is the first time anything like this has happened," said one resident. "If it’s still wandering around, that’s dangerous."

Another added, "It’s rare for a bear to come into a neighborhood like this. Until I hear it’s been caught, I’m staying inside."

While bears are known to inhabit nearby mountains, sightings within residential areas are extremely rare. According to Tadayoshi Furui of the Sakashita branch of the Keihoku Hunting Association, the bear likely came in search of food such as chestnuts and walnuts, which are abundant in the area at this time of year.

In September last year, hunters from the same association captured a bear in the Sakashita district, but even then it had not ventured into neighborhoods.

As of October 4th, the bear remains at large. Police and local authorities conducted patrols in the area in the morning. Students at nearby elementary schools were driven to school by parents and guardians for safety.

Nakatsugawa City also reported a sighting of a bear-like animal around 6:40 a.m. near the Yasaka Children's Center, not far from the scene of the previous night’s attack. The center has since closed all gates for the day as a precaution.

The local hunting association has stepped up patrols as search efforts continue. Where the bear went after the attack remains unknown.

Source: CBC