Bear attack in Hokkaido claims life of newspaper delivery man

A 52-year-old newspaper delivery worker was found dead in a bush early Saturday morning after a brutal bear attack, local police confirmed.

Authorities have issued urgent warnings for residents to remain indoors as the aggressive bear remains at large, posing an ongoing threat to the community.

The tragic incident occurred in Fukushima Town’s Mitake district, approximately 700 meters north of a municipal office in an area dotted with homes and a senior care facility.

Police were alerted by concerned residents and later discovered the victim lying motionless in the undergrowth with severe wounds consistent with a bear mauling.

Victim dragged into forest during early morning shift

A longtime resident of the area, Kenju Sato, had been on his usual newspaper delivery route when the attack occurred.

Investigators believe the bear ambushed him, dragging him into nearby woodland before fatally injuring him.

The director of the newspaper agency expressed profound grief over the loss, recalling that just days earlier, Sato had mentioned a frightening encounter with a bear during his rounds.

The director mentioned that Sato had been quite shaken by the sighting of a bear and had been warned to be cautious. However, he never imagined such a tragic outcome. He added that Sato’s colleagues were deeply distressed by his sudden death.

Search underway for dangerous bear

With the bear still roaming the vicinity, police have intensified patrols, deploying officers and local hunters to track the animal. Firefighters are assisting the search using drones to scan the area from above.

Warnings issued as bear remains at large

Authorities have repeatedly urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel, particularly in wooded zones.

This incident follows a recent advisory from the Chinese Consulate General in Sapporo, which in May warned of increased bear activity across Hokkaido.

The notice highlighted multiple cases of bears venturing into urban areas, resulting in injuries. Officials emphasized the importance of remaining vigilant, especially in forested regions or while foraging for wild plants.

Experts advise that those who encounter a bear should remain calm, avoid sudden movements, and slowly retreat without turning their back on the animal. Loud noises or running may trigger an attack.