Early on the morning of September 22nd, a 77-year-old man was attacked by a bear while gathering chestnuts in Minakami Town, Gunma Prefecture. The man sustained minor injuries.

Bear Encounter Details

According to the police, at approximately 5:30 AM on September 22nd, an emergency call was placed from Minakami Town, Gunma Prefecture, reporting that a man was scratched by a bear about 1 meter long.

The victim, the 77-year-old father of the caller, was alone gathering chestnuts in fallow land when he was suddenly attacked from behind, sustaining minor injuries to his buttocks and other areas. The bear fled the scene immediately after the attack.

Community Shock and Safety Warnings

A local resident expressed surprise, stating, Bears had never appeared here before, so it was quite a shock.

Police are urging nearby residents to refrain from non-essential outings and to ensure their doors and windows are securely locked. This incident serves as a critical reminder of the increasing frequency of bear encounters in rural Japan, particularly during the autumn foraging season when bears are actively seeking food before hibernation. Authorities advise caution and awareness of surroundings when in natural areas.