A hiker’s GPS watch has revealed chilling details about a fatal bear attack in northern Japan back in August, including that the animal returned to the victim’s body the day after killing him. The deadly mauling came amid a rise in bear attacks, with 13 people now killed nationwide this year and more than 200 injured, along with increased sightings near homes, schools, and supermarkets. According to the Asahi Shimbun newspaper, the hiker’s watch—which had logged his location and heart rate—was recovered after he disappeared while hiking in Hokkaido. The device showed his route suddenly veering off the trail before looping repeatedly in thick brush. Data indicated his heart stopped 100 to 130 yards from the path. The watch remained overnight at that spot, then moved several hundred yards the next morning, suggesting the bear dragged his body. Authorities later spotted a brown bear with two cubs carrying the remains. All three animals were killed. A mound of earth believed to have been created by the bear was found nearby, along with traces of the victim. His parents were asked to identify only his face because of extensive injuries. Separately, a ski resort in Nagano reported bear sightings, and a snowboarder said a bear “chased him” on the slope in a video posted online.
