In the beautiful landscapes of British Columbia, encounters with wildlife are a common occurrence for residents. However, for one Coquitlam resident, a recent brush with a black bear turned out to be a spine-chilling experience that he won’t soon forget.

Last Monday, Alex Gold opened the door to his garage, only to be met with the shocking sight of a bear charging at him. The moment was captured on camera, showing the bear sprinting toward him as Gold, startled and instinctively calling out "no," clapped his hands and began to back away.

In a display of calm amidst fear, Gold deftly maneuvered to the side of his car, maintaining his composure even as he realized the danger. Thankfully, he was able to hop into the driver’s seat, where he activated his automatic trunk to secure himself while keeping a close watch on the bear.

Just as he was settling into safety, another twist awaited him: a bear cub emerged nearby. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Gold honked the car horn repeatedly, startling the bears and prompting them to retreat.

On social media, Gold shared his breathtaking encounter, stating, “I’ve met bears before but never as close as it was this time. Unforgettable experience!” His post resonates with the thrill and unpredictability of living in areas where humans and wildlife frequently cross paths.

Officials from the B.C. government advise residents to exercise caution in the event of a bear sighting. In such situations, it’s crucial to stay calm, avoid direct eye contact, and back away slowly, while making noise if the bear approaches.

As the bear population continues to thrive in British Columbia, the community is reminded of the importance of respecting wildlife and staying vigilant. Gold's experience serves as a reminder that while nature can be awe-inspiring, it can also be unpredictable and dangerous. Stay safe, and always be bear-aware!