Two Hunters Injured in Bear Attack During Legal Hunt in Joensuu
Two hunters were injured in separate encounters with a wounded bear during a legal bear hunt in the Uimaharju area of Joensuu on Friday morning. The incident occurred shortly before 6:00 AM, prompting an investigation by Eastern Finland Police, who confirmed that no criminal activity was suspected.
The events began when a hunter shot an adult male bear, wounding it but failing to kill it immediately. As the hunter approached the animal to deliver a finishing shot, the bear attacked, causing injuries. The hunter called for assistance, and other members of the hunting party arrived at the scene. By that time, the bear had already fled (Iltalehti).
After administering first aid to the injured hunter, two other hunters set off with a dog to track the wounded bear. They encountered the animal in nearby terrain, where it attacked one of the trackers. The second hunter then shot and killed the bear (Yle).
Both injured hunters were transported from the scene for medical treatment. Police conducted an on-site investigation into the legality and procedures of the hunt, determining that the hunt was conducted in accordance with regulations (Helsingin Sanomat).
The bear hunting season in Finland began on Thursday, with a total quota of 182 bears permitted for harvest this season (Helsingin Sanomat). The incident highlights the risks associated with hunting large predators, particularly when dealing with wounded animals.
In a separate incident, police are searching for a hunter who went missing in Kittilä after falling from a boat along the Maunujoki River on Thursday evening (MTV Uutiset).
