A Northern California couple is recovering from a vicious attack by a black bear that left them hospitalized and their French bulldog fatally injured. The incident occurred on September 19 at the couple's home in Trinity County, where the dog, Cassie, had let out a single bark in the early morning hours, prompting Jeff Wilson to check the backyard.
As Wilson opened the door, a cinnamon-colored black bear emerged from behind the patio furniture and lunged at him, knocking him to the floor. His wife, Mallory, was also attacked by the bear, which was reportedly startled by the couple's presence. During the attack, Cassie threw herself between the bear and her owners, but was grabbed by the bear and dragged away before the couple managed to scare it off.
The couple, who own a rural retreat called Radio Ranch, rushed Cassie to emergency care, but the dog tragically died two days later after undergoing surgery to treat multiple wounds. The couple themselves suffered serious injuries, with Jeff Wilson suffering two broken ribs and numerous bite and claw wounds, and Mallory Wilson sustaining serious injuries to her head and face.
The incident has led to an investigation by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, which advises residents to secure food and garbage that can attract bears, keep pets indoors at night, and fight back rather than play dead if a black bear attacks. The couple's friends have set up a GoFundMe page to help cover their medical bills, veterinary costs, and property damage, which has raised over $16,000 of its $20,000 goal.
The attack is one of several high-profile bear encounters this year, including black bear break-ins around California's Lake Tahoe region and separate grizzly attacks involving a hiker in Glacier National Park and a Montana hunter.
NTC Report coverage is based on reporting from the original publisher.
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