Elderly man survives savage bear encounter in Khao Yai Park

A 75 year old man narrowly escaped a life-threatening encounter with a giant Asiatic black bear while collecting fishing traps near Khao Yai National Park. The bear attack left him with severe facial injuries and a desperate struggle for survival.

The dramatic incident occurred yesterday afternoon, November 19, when the local rescue unit in Prachinburi received an urgent call at 4.30pm about a villager who had been severely injured by the bear. The frightening encounter took place in Moo 14, Baan Noen Sung, Noen Hom subdistrict, Mueang Prachinburi district.

Swift action by the rescue team resulted in immediate medical assistance for the injured man, who was found with gruesome facial wounds and both eyes dislodged due to the bear’s claws. In a critical state, he was rushed to Chao Phraya Abhaibhubejhr Hospital for urgent care.

Eyewitnesses recounted that a villager on a motorcycle discovered the injured man lying beside the road near Khlong Mai Plong Reservoir. Upon stopping to help, the villager noticed the severe injuries and learnt that the man had been collecting fishing traps he had set in the morning. This area is adjacent to the national park, which is known for its wildlife.

While retrieving his traps, the man suddenly encountered the large bear, which attacked without warning. Despite his brave attempt to fend off the bear, he was overpowered and suffered deep facial gashes.

The bear retreated into the forest, allowing the man to muster the strength to draw his knife and walk his bicycle in search of help. Exhausted and weakened, he eventually abandoned the bicycle and continued on foot until he collapsed from fatigue, reported KhaoSod.

The incident prompted local villagers to alert Khao Yai National Park officials, who quickly arrived at the scene to investigate. They issued warnings to the community, highlighting the frequent presence of wild animals, particularly Asian black bears, in the area. These animals often venture into local territories in search of food, posing a potential threat to those entering the forested regions, a park official said.

“Residents need to exercise increased caution when entering these areas, especially since bears are more frequently coming out in search of food.”

The officials are considering further preventive measures, including setting up traps in areas where bear sightings or tracks are commonly reported.