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Two Soldiers Injured in Brown Bear Attack in Alaska

4/20/2026

33 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

April 16, two soldiers from the U.S. Army's 11th Airborne Division were attacked by a brown bear at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, and are recovering.
They used bear spray, and the bear has not been located.
The Army confirmed injuries but withheld privacy details, and the Alaska Department of Fish and Game is investigating.
The area is closed to recreation due to safety concerns, underscoring ongoing bear risks.

History

Historical Context

In 2003, a soldier was killed by a bear during military training in Alaska, underscoring the risks of wildlife encounters in bear-populated areas. The U.S. Army reported a 50% increase in bear attacks over the previous decade, prompting new safety measures. The recent attack on two soldiers at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson highlights ongoing dangers, potentially leading to stricter training protocols in Alaska's wilderness.

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Story summary

April 16, two soldiers from the U.S. Army's 11th Airborne Division were attacked by a brown bear at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, and are recovering.
They used bear spray, and the bear has not been located.
The Army confirmed injuries but withheld privacy details, and the Alaska Department of Fish and Game is investigating.
The area is closed to recreation due to safety concerns, underscoring ongoing bear risks.

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