State investigation reveals April bear attack on 2 JBER soldiers occurred near a den

State Investigation Confirms JBER Bear Attack Occurred Near Den Site, A Crucial Reminder for All Anchorage Residents

An investigation by the Alaska Department of Fish and Game has concluded that the April 16 brown bear attack on two Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson (JBER) soldiers occurred near an active den site in the remote Arctic Valley training area. Both soldiers, part of the 11th Airborne Division, sustained serious injuries but have since been released from the hospital and are receiving ongoing medical care, a testament to their resilience and the effectiveness of their bear spray. DNA evidence confirmed a single male brown bear was responsible, highlighting the unpredictable nature of wildlife encounters as bears emerge from hibernation.

What This Means for Anchorage
This incident, while occurring on military land, serves as a vital reminder for all Anchorage residents about the proximity of our urban environment to wild Alaska. JBER borders the Chugach Mountains and is a gateway to vast wilderness, meaning bears don’t recognize base boundaries. As spring progresses and brown bears actively disperse from their dens between late March and May to begin foraging, encounters become more likely. For those living in neighborhoods bordering greenbelts, or enjoying trails in Far North Bicentennial Park, Kincaid Park, or the Chugach State Park, this investigation underscores the importance of heightened bear awareness during this critical season.

Local Context
Living in Anchorage means coexisting with Alaska’s incredible wildlife, a unique aspect of our culture and geography. Brown bears are an integral part of the Alaskan ecosystem, deeply woven into the landscape and traditional ways of life for Alaska Native communities, who have long respected and understood these powerful animals. The military presence at JBER further highlights this blend of human activity and wilderness, as training exercises often take place in areas rich with wildlife. This balance requires constant vigilance and respect for our wild neighbors, ensuring safety for both humans and animals in an environment where the wilderness truly meets the city.

What to Know
Anchorage residents should prioritize “bear awareness” whenever recreating outdoors, especially during spring. Always carry readily accessible, unexpired bear spray and know how to use it effectively. Travel in groups, make noise to avoid surprising bears, and be extra vigilant in areas with dense vegetation or near water sources. While den sites are typically hidden, understanding that bears are emerging and actively foraging means being prepared for unexpected encounters anywhere near their habitat.

Let’s continue to look out for one another and practice responsible outdoor habits as we share our beautiful corner of Alaska with its wild inhabitants.