Worker at remote Arctic radar station killed by two polar bears in rare attack
Topics: Animals, World News, Canada
Poppy Bilderbeck
Featured Image Credit: Patrick J Endris/Getty Images/Government of Canada
Topics: Animals, World News, Canada
An investigation has been launched after a 'rare' polar bear attack killed an Arctic radar station worker.
On August 8, an unnamed person passed away after being attacked by two polar bears on Brevoort Island, southeast of Baffin Island, in the area of the Arctic which is part of Canada's northern Nunavut territory.
The employee was working for Nasittuq Corporation - a firm which provides 'technical and management services to Canadian and U.S. Government customers,' as per its website.
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The corporation released a statement on August 9 addressing the fatality, confirming 'a tragic incident' occurred at one of its 'work locations'.
It reads: "It is with deep sorrow that Nasittuq Corporation confirms a tragic incident occurred yesterday at one of our work locations on Brevoort Island, Nunavut. An attack by two polar bears has resulted in the loss of one of our valued employees. Nasittuq employees responded to the scene and one of the animals was put down.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends, and colleagues affected by this loss. Nasittuq Corporation is providing support to the family of the deceased during this difficult time. Additionally, we are offering counseling services to all employees affected by this."
The corporation emphasized the 'safety and well-being' of its employees is it's 'highest priority'.
"We are deeply committed to ensuring a safe working environment," it continued.
It added an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident has since been launched and it's 'working closely with local authorities and regulatory agencies'.
Nasittuq resolved: "Out of respect for the privacy of the family, we are not releasing the name of the individual at this time. On behalf of the family, we ask for understanding and privacy as we work through this tragic situation."
President of Nasittuq Chris Webb echoed to Nunatsiaq News: "We need to respect the family in this tragic situation, and let the [investigators] and the authorities do their job."
Polar bear attacks on humans are rare, however, since 2023 this marks the second time one has proven fatal - a woman and her son killed in Wales, Alaska, after a polar bear surprised them out of nowhere in the middle of a snow squall. In 2018, a man was also killed in Canada as a result of being attacked by a polar bear.
UNILAD has contacted Nasittuq Corporation for comment.
If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence, contact The Compassionate Friends on (877) 969-0010.