Bear hunt continues after Sunday attack near Index

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife is actively searching for a bear that attacked a hiker on Sunday morning. The incident occurred near Index, prompting a coordinated response from state officers and local deputies.

Sultan police received reports of the encounter after a resident came across a mother bear and her cub. Officers said the woman was on the 49400 block of Index-Galena Road, close to U.S. 2, when the animal approached her.

The Department of Fish and Wildlife received the notification around 7:50 a.m. Officials stated that the bear knocked the woman down from behind. While she was on the ground, the animal bit and clawed at her before she managed to walk back to her home.

The woman called for help from her residence. Police described her injuries as serious but not life-threatening. She was transported to a hospital for medical treatment.

On Sunday, state officers and Snohomish County deputies used tracking dogs to locate the animal. The search did not succeed in finding the bear. A trap has been placed nearby, and wildlife police plan to increase patrols in the area.

A department spokesperson confirmed on Monday that officers are still trying to locate the animal. The area is near the Skykomish River fork and trailheads for popular hikes to Lake Serene and Bridal Veil Falls. Sultan police urged residents to exercise caution.

The department provided guidance for bear encounters, advising hikers to stand up, wave their hands, and speak in a low voice if a bear approaches. They recommended backing away without making direct eye contact and avoiding running. Hikers should make noise, leash pets, and carry accessible bear spray. Residents can report sightings to the Sultan police non-emergency line at 425-407-3999 or the Department of Fish and Wildlife at 360-902-2936.