Key Facts
• A bear attacked and killed a 52-year-old newspaper delivery man on July 12.
• The victim, Kenki Sato, was dragged 50 meters into a grassy area.
• The attack occurred in Fukushima Town, Hokkaido, Japan.
• A surveillance camera captured the bear near residential areas on July 10.
• Hokkaido issued its first-ever “Brown Bear Alert” for the entire Fukushima Town.
• Experts identified a nearby irrigation channel as a possible escape route.
• Male adult bears can travel up to 20 kilometers in a single day.
• Experts warn neighboring towns to remain vigilant due to the bear’s mobility.
• Police and hunters continue patrols and investigations as of July 14.
Summary
A brown bear that fatally attacked a newspaper delivery man in Fukushima Town, Hokkaido, remains at large, prompting heightened concerns among experts and authorities. The attack occurred on July 12, two days after the bear was spotted near residential areas. The victim, Kenki Sato, was dragged 50 meters into a grassy area, where he was later found deceased. In response, Hokkaido issued its first-ever “Brown Bear Alert” for the entire town. Experts believe the bear may have escaped through a nearby irrigation channel leading to the mountains and warn that it could travel up to 20 kilometers daily, potentially endangering neighboring towns. Patrols and investigations are ongoing to locate the bear and ensure public safety.
