Bear ‘released without charges’ after being arrested in East Vancouver

The Vancouver Police Department (VPD) says it received 911 calls after the bear was seen wandering around Commercial Drive near Grandview Highway. (VPD Image)

By Emma Crawford

Posted May 14, 2026 7:50 pm.

Last Updated May 15, 2026 6:06 am.

A black bear is unharmed after being taken into police custody in East Vancouver Tuesday.

The Vancouver Police Department (VPD) says it received 911 calls after the bear was seen wandering around Commercial Drive near Grandview Highway around 1 a.m.

Officers followed the “big, furry suspect” as it meandered toward Hastings Street and Commercial Drive.

The VPD Emergency Response Team helped contain the bear until the BC Conservation Officer Service could come to the scene.

Also read:

“When the Conservation Service arrived, the bear was tranquilized and taken to North Vancouver,” the VPD said.

“Nobody was hurt, the bear slept it off, and was released without charges.”

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