20-11-2024 (BANGKOK) A 75-year-old Thai man suffered severe facial injuries after a terrifying encounter with an Asiatic black bear while checking his fishing traps near Khao Yai National Park on Tuesday afternoon.
The incident occurred in Ban Noen Sung village, Prachin Buri province, when the elderly resident was inspecting his fishing traps in a pond adjacent to the national park boundaries. The victim was suddenly confronted by a large bear that launched an unprovoked attack.
According to local witnesses, the man desperately fought for his life during the encounter. The bear’s powerful swipe caused catastrophic facial injuries, including the loss of both eyes. Despite his severe wounds, the victim managed to escape and attempted to walk back to seek help, eventually collapsing by the roadside.
Emergency responders from the Sawang Bamphen Thammasathan Rescue Foundation discovered the victim in critical condition after receiving distress calls from villagers who found him. The injured man was immediately rushed to Chaopraya Abhaibhubejhr Hospital for urgent medical treatment.
A local resident who discovered the victim described finding him lying beside the road near Khlong Mai Plong reservoir. “He had abandoned his bicycle further back and somehow managed to walk despite his grievous injuries,” the witness reported.
Following the incident, Khao Yai National Park officials conducted an investigation at the attack site. They issued warnings to local communities, noting that bears frequently venture into the area in search of food. Park authorities are now considering installing traps in locations where bear activity has been frequently reported.
“We’re seeing increased bear activity in populated areas during this period,” a park official stated. “Residents must exercise extreme caution when venturing near the park boundaries, particularly in less-developed areas where wildlife encounters are more likely.”
