Woman attacked in residence by bear

An elderly woman was attacked and severely injured by a black bear late Sunday afternoon inside her residence west of Kalispell, authorities said.

The woman was transported to Kalispell Regional Hospital. Sheriff’s deputies and Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks wardens and investigators responded.

The residence is located between Batavia and Ashley Lake. Officials could not determine how the bear entered the home, but it exited through a window.

Fish, Wildlife and Parks’ Wildlife/Human Attack Response Team was notified and has been investigating the incident.

It appears the bear had been fed with bird feed and other items at the residence.

As of Monday afternoon, the bear remained on the loose. Officials are attempting to trap the bear. Erik Wenum, a wildlife conflict specialist, said nearby residents of the area have been notified.

Investigator Brian Sommers said the attack was severe and the woman sustained serious injuries. She remains at Kalispell Regional Healthcare.

According to police log reports, a woman on Ashley Lake Road called police Sunday after witnessing a bear inside her mother’s home. According to reports, the bear had trashed the place and left scat on the floor. It is unknown if the incidents are related or if it involved the same bear.

Reporter Ryan Murray can be reached at 758-4436 or rmurray@dailyinterlake.com.