Story perspectives

Grizzly Bear Attack Survivor Fights Back with Boxing Skills

10/24/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Joe Pendry, 63, survived a grizzly bear attack while hunting elk near Fort Steele, B.C., on October 2, 2023.
He sustained severe injuries, including a torn scalp and broken bones, but fought back using his boxing skills.
Pendry shot the bear in the leg and called for help as it continued to assault him.
The B.C. Conservation Officer Service confirmed a dead grizzly found nearby was responsible for the attack.
Pendry's recovery will be lengthy, and he is experiencing symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, impacting his family emotionally.

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Story summary

Joe Pendry, 63, survived a grizzly bear attack while hunting elk near Fort Steele, B.C., on October 2, 2023.
He sustained severe injuries, including a torn scalp and broken bones, but fought back using his boxing skills.
Pendry shot the bear in the leg and called for help as it continued to assault him.
The B.C. Conservation Officer Service confirmed a dead grizzly found nearby was responsible for the attack.
Pendry's recovery will be lengthy, and he is experiencing symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, impacting his family emotionally.