On September 6th, in Siren, Burnett County, Wisconsin, a routine hunting trip took a dramatic turn, resulting in a remarkable display of bravery by 12-year-old Owen Beierman.
The young boy found himself in the extraordinary position of saving his father’s life by fatally shooting a black bear that was mauling him. This incident, confirmed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, occurred during a legal hunting expedition near the family’s cabin. The event unfolded when Owen and his father, Ryan Beierman, encountered a 200-pound black bear. Owen’s initial shot wounded the animal, which then retreated into the dense forest.
As the pair pursued the injured bear, it unexpectedly charged at Ryan from a close range of approximately 6 feet. Despite Ryan’s attempts to fend off the attack with his pistol, firing eight shots, he was unable to stop the bear’s assault. The animal inflicted severe injuries on Ryan, biting his abdomen, arm, and leg. In a moment of quick thinking and remarkable composure, Owen aimed with his rifle. Ryan, recounting the incident to the Minneapolis Star-Tribune, vividly describes feeling the bullet pass through the bear as he lay on his back, grappling with the animal.
Owen’s precise shot proved to be life-saving, bringing the harrowing attack to an end. The encounter left Ryan with serious injuries including a partially detached cheek that required stitches to reattach, as well as puncture wounds on his arm and legs. According to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, only nine bear-related incidents were reported in the state between 2013 and 2022, making the Beiermans’ experience exceptionally unusual. Black bears, native to North America, typically avoid human contact.
However, in situations where they feel cornered or provoked, they can exhibit aggressive behaviour as demonstrated in this case. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources emphasizes the importance of safety and preparedness for hunters venturing into bear-inhabited areas. Recommendations include carrying bear spray and maintaining constant awareness of one’s surroundings.
