Woman Killed in Bear Attack Near Sanok

23 April 2026 Poland Radar 0 Comments

A 58-year-old woman died in a bear attack near Sanok. Authorities investigate the circumstances and advise caution in Subcarpathia forests.

A 58-year-old woman died after an apparent bear attack near Sanok. Officials say a sow with three cubs likely attacked.

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Bear attack near Sanok: what we know

Police and the public prosecutor’s office opened an inquiry into the incident. The report reached emergency services on Thursday, 23 April, at 10:20. Consequently, three fire units and police crews responded. Moreover, firefighters on ATVs reached the scene by 11:20. The woman lay unconscious. However, medics stopped resuscitation because her injuries were extensive. Asp. szt. Anna Oleniacz of Sanok police said responders found wounds consistent with an attack by a wild animal.

The woman’s son raised the alarm and pointed rescuers to the location. In addition, he told officers that a female bear with three cubs attacked his mother. Therefore, police, a prosecutor, and a doctor worked together at the site. Prosecutor Izabela Jurkowska-Hanus told TVN24 that investigators currently see no evidence of other causes. Furthermore, forensic work and a formal post-mortem will clarify the full sequence of events.

Investigation, local response and context

Investigators will secure the scene and collect forensic evidence. In addition, State Forests (Lasy Państwowe) and wildlife specialists may join the probe. Consequently, authorities will assess whether to remove the animal. Meanwhile, regional veterinary services may advise on handling wildlife. Bear management policies vary across provinces. Therefore, officials must balance public safety and species protection.

The incident occurred in Subcarpathia, a region that borders Slovakia and Ukraine. As a result, brown bears move across borders and habitats freely. Moreover, bear numbers have recovered in recent years due to protection and habitat change. Consequently, rare encounters may nonetheless rise in some forested areas. However, fatal attacks remain uncommon in Poland.

For those who live in or visit rural Poland, simple precautions reduce risk. Firstly, stay on marked trails and avoid dawn walks in dense forest. Secondly, keep dogs leashed and make noise on footpaths. In addition, do not leave food or rubbish near campsites. Finally, report bear sightings to local forestry offices or the police immediately.

💡 GOOD TO KNOW: If you face an emergency dial 112 for ambulance, fire, or police. In addition, tell your local forest office (Lasy Państwowe) about sightings. Note that NFZ is the National Health Fund (public health insurer). ZUS runs pensions and benefits. A “mandat” means a police fine. PESEL is a national ID number used for official records. Stay on marked trails. Avoid cubs. Seek medical help and inform authorities immediately.

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