Woman Uses Jiu-Jitsu Training to Kick and Block Mother Bear’s Swipes to Fend It Off During Attack

A woman has emerged from a bear attack in Alaska largely unscathed, thanks to her quick thinking, her dog, and her jiu-jitsu training. Katelynn Lane, while walking her dog Vesper near Bells Flats, just ten miles from Kodiak, found herself face-to-face with a Kodiak brown bear sow and her cubs earlier this month.

The incident took place on Tuesday, 18 August, when Lane was enjoying a routine stroll alongside a salmon stream. According to reports from Alaska News Source and Alaska Native News, Lane encountered the bear unexpectedly. Despite her knowledge of bear safety protocols, she found herself unprepared as she had not equipped herself with deterrents for the encounter.

Lane recounted her experience, stating that she attempted to use conventional methods for bear encounters, such as making noise and standing her ground. Unfortunately, these actions did not deter the bear, which proceeded to attack her. “I realised I had to think quickly,” she commented.

In a critical moment, it was her dog Vesper that diverted the bear’s attention. As the bear moved towards Lane, Vesper barked energetically, momentarily distracting the predator. This allowed Lane to scramble up a nearby slope, gaining a slightly better position to confront the bear. “Those few seconds where Vesper was distracting the bear saved me,” she noted, recalling the intense situation.

However, the bear eventually became focused on Lane again and grabbed her right leg. In a stroke of instinctive reflex, Lane used her jiu-jitsu training to defend herself. Positioned on her back with her feet pointed downhill, she executed a defensive kick to the bear’s face. “It felt instinctual,” Lane explained. “But I do believe my training helped me there.”

Thanks to the kick, the bear retreated, allowing Lane to escape the tense encounter, which she estimated lasted no more than three minutes. Remarkably, at the time of the attack, Lane was on FaceTime with her father, sharing the incredible experience with him as it unfolded. Once the bear left with her cubs, Lane promptly called emergency services and sought refuge at a nearby residence until help arrived.

Following the ordeal, Lane suffered from deep bruising and minor scratches on the backs of both her legs, though Vesper remained unharmed throughout the incident. Lane later shared photographs of her injuries, highlighting the physical toll of the bear encounter.

As the Kodiak Police Department initiates an investigation into the incident, Lane has stated her determination to resume her walks with Vesper once she has recovered. She plans to implement additional safety measures to mitigate any future risks. “I need to rebuild my confidence,” Lane stated. “I’ve already ordered some bear bells for both myself and Vesper to make sure we are heard clearly on our walks.”

While the encounter was terrifying, Lane’s resourcefulness and training played a significant role in her survival. She expressed gratitude for Vesper’s assistance during the crisis, noting that her dog’s presence was vital in distracting the bear.

This incident has brought renewed attention to bear safety in areas of Alaska, a region known for its wildlife encounters. Lane’s experience serves as a reminder for residents and visitors alike to remain vigilant and prepared when exploring the great outdoors.