The remains of 50-year-old Tad Fujioka, a hunter from Sitka, Alaska, were discovered on October 30, 2024, following an overdue report.
Alaska State Troopers received alerts on October 29 that Fujioka had not returned from his hunting trip, prompting search operations involving Alaska Wildlife Troopers and the Coast Guard.
Search teams located Fujioka’s remains in a remote wooded area the following morning.
Preliminary investigations suggest he was the victim of a fatal bear mauling, with authorities stating he had earlier killed a deer, which could have attracted the bear.
Tim DeSpain, a spokesperson for the Alaska Department of Public Safety, indicated that the bear responsible was likely a brown bear, the only species in that region.
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The Alaska Department of Fish and Game estimates around 30,000 brown bears reside in the state, which can weigh up to 1,500 pounds and run short distances at speeds up to 40 mph.
Given the proximity of bear habitats, encounters can be dangerous, especially for hunters.
Officials emphasize the importance of safety precautions in bear country, recommending that people remain calm and avoid approaching bears if encountered.
