The attack occurred during a land navigation training event in the Arctic Valley within Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, a sprawling military installation covering 100 square miles in Anchorage that is home to up to 350 black bears and 75 brown bears. When the bear leaped at the soldiers and attacked, they deployed pepper spray in response. Lieutenant Colonel Jo Nederhoed confirmed that both soldiers were left with serious injuries and are being treated in Anchorage, with their conditions improving as of Saturday morning, though they will require ongoing care.
The incident is under investigation, with the 11th Airborne Division working closely with installation authorities and local wildlife officials to gather all relevant information and ensure the safety of all personnel in the area, according to a division statement.
The Alaska Department of Fish and Game reported that no bears were found in the area after the attack, and based on the scene investigation and information from other responding agencies, this appears to be a defensive attack by a bear recently emerged from a den.
Samples collected from the scene will be analyzed for DNA to confirm the species and gender of the bear involved.