In a tragic incident at a remote Arctic outpost in Canada’s Nunavut territory, a radar technician identified as Christopher Best, 34, was mauled to death by two polar bears after leaving the safety of his base to photograph them.
According to a company report, Best had just arrived at the facility on Brevoort Island when he walked past posted wildlife-warning signs to take photos of a bear he believed to be alone. Shortly thereafter, a second bear emerged and blocked his escape, the report said.
Co-workers responded by firing a “bear-banger” — a noise-making deterrent — and eventually fatally shot one of the bears, but the efforts came too late. Best’s mother suggested the incident might have been avoided had the site been fenced or more strictly managed.
The operating company, Nasittuq Corporation, noted the facility had no prior bear fatalities in its 70-year history but said it is reviewing safety protocols following the tragedy.
