A bear roaming the streets of a Japanese city for three consecutive days has triggered widespread panic, prompting authorities to close nearly 100 schools on Monday (June 8).
The incident occurred in Utsunomiya, located north of Tokyo. After more than 10 sightings were reported since Saturday, local officials ordered the closure of 94 public elementary and junior high schools as a precaution.
Authorities Urge Residents to Stay Indoors
According to city officials, the bear was even spotted wandering inside a shopping mall, heightening safety concerns.
“We have dispatched vehicles to areas where the bear was seen to warn residents,” a city official told Agence France-Presse on condition of anonymity. “We are urging everyone to remain indoors or stay inside their vehicles.”
Police, municipal authorities, and about a dozen licensed hunters have been deployed across the city in an effort to track down the animal. Officials have not yet confirmed whether a single bear is responsible for all sightings or if multiple animals are involved.
Rising Bear Encounters Across Japan
Bear encounters and attacks have been increasing across Japan in recent years, particularly in urban areas. Last year, 13 people died in bear attacks — the highest number on record.
Experts believe that bears emerging from winter hibernation in search of food are increasingly venturing into populated areas, contributing to the surge in incidents.
Government data show that more than 50,000 bear sightings were reported nationwide in the year through March — more than double the figures recorded in the previous two years.
However, in Utsunomiya, a city of about 510,000 residents, only two unconfirmed bear sightings were reported last year, making the current situation highly unusual and alarming for local authorities.
Officials say the schools will remain closed until the area is declared safe.
