A bear injured four people in a residential area of Fukushima, Japan, on Tuesday, marking the latest in a series of attacks as bears increasingly encroach on human habitats. The Japanese Environment Ministry reported that in 2025, 13 people were killed in over 230 bear attacks, surpassing previous records.
Incident Details
Police and fire department officials responded to an emergency call from Fukushima Steel Works in the Sasakino district. Security camera footage captured a black bear chasing a male employee in his 20s near the entrance, throwing him to the ground. The bear then injured a second male employee in his 60s inside the factory compound. Later, it attacked a third male employee in his 60s at a separate company and an 80-year-old woman in the neighborhood.
The three men sustained minor injuries, while the woman had moderate injuries, none life-threatening, according to the Fukushima City Fire Department. As of Tuesday afternoon, the bear had not been captured and was believed to be inside the second company compound, surrounded by police with long sticks.
Community Response
Two nearby schools, including Noda Elementary School, closed and shifted to online classes, warning residents to avoid non-essential outings. The attack rekindled fears from last year when Japan's army was deployed to Akita prefecture after more than 60 people were attacked, including four fatalities.
Experts' Analysis
Experts attribute the rising conflicts to a growing bear population in regions with aging and declining human populations, where few people are trained to hunt. In March, the Japanese government estimated the overall bear population at around 57,800 and adopted a roadmap for systematic culling. Plans include tripling municipal bear control staff to 2,500 within five years and doubling bear traps.
Recent Sightings
Bear sightings have been reported in Tokyo's western suburbs, including the Okutama hiking area. Park officials have set up additional traps and launched bear alerts on social media. The government has intensified public awareness campaigns, urging hikers and mushroom hunters to check notifications and avoid outdoor activity during early morning and evening when bears are active.
Safety Guidelines
An environment ministry manual advises that anyone encountering a bear should not panic, move slowly, and avoid turning around and running. As a last resort, if attacked, the manual recommends turning face down, balling up, and covering the neck to save oneself from fatal wounds.
