Key Facts

• The incident occurred about 2.7 miles up Mount Si trail in the Mount Si Natural Resources Conservation Area, southeast of Seattle.
• The boy was injured when a mother black bear charged the group and swiped him; his injuries were minor.
• The boy was taken to the hospital for wound cleaning and possible antibiotics and was released by 9 pm.
• Another teammate hurt his ankle while fleeing from the bear.
• Officials closed the trail after another group reported being followed by a black bear on the same path.
• Authorities said relocating the bear is preferred but they may have to kill it if found to ensure safety.
• Washington has about 22,000 black bears and recorded 20 black bear-related injuries since 1970; only one fatality occurred in 1974.
• The Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife advises hikers to identify themselves if a bear approaches, avoid eye contact, back away slowly, make noise, leash pets, watch surroundings, and carry bear spray.