Bear Mauling Suspected In Sitka Hunter’s Death

Sad news out of the Sitka area, where a bear mauling is suspected in the death of an overdue hunter whose remains were found. In addition to the video above, here’s more from Alaska’s News Source:

The hunter’s body was identified as 50-year-old Tad Fujioka of Sitka. Fuijoka was reported missing to troopers Tuesday night during a deer hunting trip. Troopers said in a dispatch the investigation revealed he was the likely victim of a fatal bear mauling.

And this is the complete Alaska State/Wildlife Troopers dispatch on the tragedy:

AK24110597

Location: Sitka

Type: SAR Fatal Bear Mauling

Dispatch Text:

On October 29, 2024, at 6:17pm, the Alaska State Troopers were notified of an overdue hunter in the Sitka area. Tad Fujioka, age 50, of Sitka, was reported overdue from a deer hunting trip. On Oct. 30, 2024, Alaska Wildlife Troopers, USCG, and Sitka SAR, conducted land-based searches utilizing three search teams in the remote wooded area that were transported by AWT Patrol Vessel and Sitka SAR vessel.  At approximately 11:30am, search teams located Fujioka’s remains.  Investigation revealed he was the likely victim of a fatal bear mauling. Recovery efforts were made by SAR teams. Next of kin has been notified.