Dozens of individuals required medical treatment following a bear spray incident at a church in North Battleford, Saskatchewan, according to local authorities. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) responded to reports of a disturbance at a place of worship where a canister of bear repellent was discharged, causing respiratory irritation and panic among attendees.
Incident Details
The event unfolded during a service on a recent Sunday morning. Witnesses described a sudden cloud of irritant filling the sanctuary, leading to coughing fits, burning eyes, and difficulty breathing. Emergency services arrived promptly and began triaging affected individuals on-site. Several dozen people were treated for mild to moderate exposure symptoms, with a few transported to nearby hospitals for further observation.
RCMP spokesperson Cpl. Rob King confirmed that investigators are reviewing security footage and interviewing witnesses to determine the circumstances. Preliminary findings suggest the discharge was accidental, but authorities have not ruled out intentional misuse. No arrests have been made as of now.
Community Response
The incident has shaken the local community. Reverend Thomas Miller of the affected church expressed relief that no life-threatening injuries occurred. He emphasized the importance of safety protocols for items like bear spray, which is commonly carried in rural areas for protection against wildlife.
Health officials remind the public that bear spray contains capsaicin, a potent irritant that can cause severe respiratory distress in enclosed spaces. They advise anyone experiencing lingering symptoms to seek medical attention.
RCMP continue to investigate and urge anyone with information to come forward. The church will remain closed temporarily for cleanup and ventilation.
