Black bear put down in Powell River following an incident involving a 5-year-old child

The bear began approaching children and as they were running away, one child tripped and fell.

Conservation Officers have put down a black bear in Powell River following an incident involving a 5-year-old child.

On Tuesday, a group of children were playing tag in a field at Haywire Bay, as part of a day camp through the Powell River Outdoor Learning Centre, when a bear came onto the field.

The bear began approaching children and as they were running away, one child tripped and fell.

The bear went on top of the child and was quickly scared away by nearby camp counsellors.

A search of the area found a black bear in the vicinity of the site on Wednesday, which matched witness descriptions and began approaching officers, when it was put down.

No other bears were seen during a sweep of the area.

The COS encourages people to take precautions in case of wildlife encounters, including travelling in groups, ensuring pets are leashed and carrying bear spray.