The US Army announced on 19/4 that the incident occurred while two soldiers from the 11th Airborne Division were participating in a land navigation training event at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Alaska. US officials did not release extensive details about the encounter but confirmed the soldiers deployed bear spray.

The Associated Press reported that the two service members encountered a brown bear in Arctic Valley, a training area within Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, on 16/4.

A bear in Anchorage, Alaska. Photo: Anchorage.net

The 11th Airborne Division announced, "The incident is under investigation. We are working closely with base officials and local wildlife authorities to gather relevant information and ensure the safety of all personnel in the area."

Lieutenant Colonel Jo Nederhoed, spokesperson for the 11th Airborne Division, stated that the two service members sustained severe injuries and received immediate medical attention. They are currently receiving care at a medical facility in Anchorage. As of the morning of 18/4, both continued to show signs of improving health but will require ongoing care for full recovery.

The bear's current condition and location remain unknown.

Members of the 11th Airborne Division in Alaska in 10/2025. Video: US Department of Defense

Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson houses over 40,000 people, with more than half being active-duty service members. In addition to the 11th Airborne Division, it is home to the 673rd Air Base Wing and the US Army Alaska command.

This incident is not the first bear attack involving US service members at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson. In 5/2022, Staff Sergeant Seth Michael Plant died after a bear encounter.

Bear attacks on humans are relatively common in Alaska, a region known for its large bear population. The state is home to approximately 100,000 black bears and 30,000 brown bears.

Pham Giang (According to AP, ABC News, CBS)