Wildlife crews set trap for bear that mauled woman near Index

State fish and wildlife officers continued their search on Monday for a bear that attacked a woman near Index on Sunday morning. The incident occurred on the 49400 block of Index-Galena Road, near U.S. 2, prompting a response from Sultan police.

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife reported receiving a call at approximately 7:50 a.m. regarding the attack on an adult woman. A resident had encountered a mother bear and her cub, leading to the confrontation. Officials stated the bear knocked the woman down from behind. While she was on the ground, the animal bit and clawed at her.

The woman managed to walk back to her home, where she contacted emergency services. Officers described her injuries as serious but not life-threatening. She was transported to a hospital for medical treatment.

State officers and Snohomish County deputies conducted a search on Sunday using dogs, but the agency reported that the efforts did not locate the animal. A trap has since been set nearby. Wildlife police plan to increase patrols in the region.

A spokesperson for the fish and wildlife department confirmed on Monday that officers were still attempting to find the bear. Sultan police advised residents to exercise caution in the area. The location is close to the fork in the Skykomish River and trailheads for popular hikes to Lake Serene and Bridal Veil Falls.

The department provided guidance for minimizing risk during encounters. It advised people to stand up, wave hands, and speak in a low voice if a bear approaches. Individuals should back away without direct eye contact and avoid running. Hikers should make noise, leash pets, and carry readily accessible bear spray.

Sultan police instructed residents to report bear sightings to their non-emergency line at 425-407-3999 or to the Department of Fish and Wildlife at 360-902-2936.