Yahoo News Remains of Overdue Hunter Found in Alaska as Authorities Say He Was Likely Mauled to Death by Bear
Alaska State Troopers identified the victim as Tad Fujioka, 50
Abbie Parr/Getty
File photo of brown bearThe remains of an overdue hiker were found and linked to an apparent bear attack, according to Alaska authorities.
On Tuesday, Oct. 29 around 6:20 p.m., local time, Alaska State Troopers said they were alerted that the hunter, identified as Tad Fujioka, 50, of Sitka, had not returned from his trip.
The following day, responders including Alaska Wildlife Troopers and the Coast Guard conducted land-based searches in a remote wooded area.
Related: How to Prevent Bear Attacks and What to Do If a Bear Approaches You, According to Experts
“At approximately 11:30am, search teams located Fujioka’s remains. Investigation revealed he was the likely victim of a fatal bear mauling,“ police wrote.
Tim DeSpain, an Alaska Department of Public Safety spokesperson, said Fujioka was attacked by at least one bear, NBC News reported. Fujioka had earlier killed a deer prior to the incident.
DeSpain said the animal involved in Fujioka’s death was likely a brown bear since it’s the only type of bear in the vicinity, the outlet added.
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According to Alaska Department of Fish and Game’s website, there are an estimated 30,000 brown bears throughout the state, adding that bear hunting season generally takes place in the spring and fall. They could weigh up to 1,500 lbs. and run in short bursts up to 40 mph.
Related: Tourist Mauled After Rolling Down Window to Take Selfie with Bear
The Department of Fish and Game recommends to people who see a bear that doesn’t notice them to stay calm and leave the area quietly in the same direction they arrived in. It also suggested not approaching the animal.
If a bear does notice someone, said the department, the person should have their deterrent ready such as a bear spray; stay calm; raise their arms overhead to appear larger; don’t run, as it may prompt the bear to chase them; and to watch the bear to see if it behaves defensively or non-defensively.
