Authorities in British Columbia, Canada, have stated that more than one grizzly bear may have been involved in a fatal attack on a mother and daughter in Bella Coola, a community along the province’s central coast. The victims have been identified by family members as art therapist Jenny Balcarras and her 20-year-old daughter, Selah Reed.

The Conservation Officer Service’s Inspector Jeff Tyre announced that a second body had been found during a search by Royal Canadian Mounted Police and conservation officers on Tuesday afternoon, following the discovery of the first set of remains a day earlier. Tyre noted that it is not yet clear if multiple bears were involved in the attack, and any bears captured in the area will be assessed.

Balcarras’ brother, Matthew, described his sister as “incredibly strong” and said she had lived in many remote places, including Alaska, before moving to Bella Coola a few months ago. He also praised her as a “beautiful artist” and an inspiration to him and his brothers.

Authorities have imposed a curfew on the community, which is located about 1,000 kilometers north of Vancouver, as the search for the animal or animals responsible for the attack continues. If the “offending bear” is captured, it will be killed to protect public safety.

This tragic incident comes nearly a year after a grizzly attack on a group of elementary school students and teachers in the same area, which left one adult and three children seriously injured. The animal involved in that attack was never captured.

Kim Titchener, founder of Bear Safety & More Inc., expressed concern about the recent attack, noting that Bella Coola is known for its large population of grizzly and black bears. She also pointed out that there have been “concerning pressures” on bear populations in British Columbia due to habitat loss and food stress caused by drought and climate change, leading to more conflicts with people.

The Central Coast Teachers’ Association mourned the loss of Balcarras, who had joined their school community as a counselor in August and devoted countless hours to supporting the well-being of students and staff. A fundraiser has been set up to help Balcarras’ family navigate the financial burden of arranging funeral services.