By Erika Hernandez
Two US soldiers were seriously injured after being attacked by a grizzly bear during a training exercise in Alaska. Both are receiving medical attention while authorities investigate the incident.
The incident occurred at Joint Putrid Elmendorf-Richardson, where two soldiers from the 11th Airborne Division were conducting a land navigation exercise, according to ABC News.
During the activity, in a mountainous area known as Arctic Valley, The soldiers encountered a brown bear, which attacked them.
Attack and response of soldiers
According to the official report, the soldiers were equipped with bear repellent spray, which they used during the attack.
However, The animal managed to seriously injure them before retreating.
Authorities indicated that the incident could be a defensive attack, possibly by a bear that had just emerged from its den.
The two soldiers were evacuated and taken to a medical center in Anchorage. According to Lieutenant Colonel Jo Nederhoed, both have serious injuries, although they show signs of improvement.
However, they will require ongoing medical treatment to achieve a full recovery.
Ongoing investigation
Military authorities and wildlife agencies continue to investigate the incident to determine the exact circumstances.
The Alaska Department of Fish and Game reported that the bear involved has not been located, although DNA samples collected at the scene are being analyzed.
The military park, located in a large wilderness area, is home to a significant population of black and brown bears, which increases the risk of encounters with wildlife.
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