Exactly what type of bear was involved in an encounter at Harold Creek west of Water Valley on July 2 is currently under investigation by Fish and Wildlife officials.

A man in his 50s has been transported to a Calgary hospital with what is believed to be non-life-threatening injuries after he was able to break free of from a bear and make way to his nearby vehicle.

On July 2 at approximately 12:55 p.m., the Didsbury RCMP responded to the complaint and were told the lone man had been geo-caching when the encounter took place.

"The bear attacked him and attempted to drag him off into the bush," explains Sgt. Shawn French of RCMP communications.

Once breaking free he drove himself to a Water Valley store, where he met with Park Rangers.

EMS public education officer Adam Loria says paramedics responded and brought him to Calgary by ground ambulance.

"The altercation resulting in him receiving numerous soft tissue injuries, considered non-life-threatening," says Loria.

At this point, the bear has not been located and Fish and Wildlife has taken over the investigation. Neither the EMS or RCMP have any further information on the species of bear involved.

Due to the remote location of the attack, the RCMP believe there is no danger to the public at this time.

An update will be provided should more information become available.

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