Bear attack in Powell River: female, 2 cubs destroyed

A female bear that charged a Powell River man has been destroyedalong with her two cubs, conservation officers have confirmed.

The man who is recovering from minor injuries sustained in the attack was walking his dog near the town's largest mall early Thursday morning.

The man's dog started barking and ran quickly back to him, then a black bear charged, knocking the man to the ground.

Area conservation officer, Sgt. Murray Smith told CBC News that the bear a sow wIth two cubs was well known to officials, and all three animals were destroyed for safety reasons.

Smith said the hot weather meant the berry crop failed this year, in turn bringing more bears into town looking for food.

He said this year had been the worst for bear-related problems in a decade.