Woman hospitalized after bear attack near Index

A woman suffered serious injuries on Sunday morning after a bear attacked her near Index, Washington. She was transported to a hospital for treatment. Her condition is described as serious but not life-threatening.

The incident occurred near 7:50 a.m. in the 49400 block of Index-Galena Road, close to U.S. 2. Sultan police responded after a resident reported seeing a mother bear and her cub. The Department of Fish and Wildlife confirmed the attack shortly after the call.

Officials stated the bear knocked the woman down from behind. It then bit and clawed at her while she was on the ground. The woman made it to her home and called for help from there.

State fish and wildlife officers and Snohomish County deputies used dogs to search for the bear on Sunday. The search was unsuccessful. A trap has been set in the area. Wildlife police plan to increase patrols in the coming days.

A spokesperson for the Department of Fish and Wildlife said officers continued attempting to locate the animal on Monday. The location is near the Skykomish River fork and trailheads for Lake Serene and Bridal Veil Falls. Sultan police advised residents to exercise caution in the area.

The department provided guidance for people encountering bears. It recommends standing up, waving hands, and speaking in a low voice if a bear approaches. Hikers should make noise, leash pets, and carry bear spray. Residents can report sightings to Sultan police at 425-407-3999 or the Department of Fish and Wildlife at 360-902-2936.