A mother bear and her cub surprised staff at a Pharmasave in Hope, British Columbia, when they wandered into the store on a quiet Sunday afternoon. The incident was captured on video and quickly gained traction online, drawing attention to the unusual encounter between wildlife and a retail setting.
The Unexpected Visitors
Employee Kara Kelso recalled the moment a shout of “bear!” echoed through the aisles. She immediately focused on getting customers to safety while the animals entered the shop. Kelso later said, “I have video of them coming straight into the store,” noting the bears’ calm demeanor as they moved through the entrance.
Staff Reaction and Safety Measures
Kim Glentworth, who was not working that shift, praised her team’s handling of the situation. She explained that the bears “actually crossed from across the street” and spent roughly five minutes inside. During that time they explored the cosmetics section and stopped at the pharmacy consulting desk before exiting peacefully. Glentworth added that her staff “handled the incident perfectly,” ensuring no one was harmed.
What the Bears Did Inside
While the bears browsed, Kelso captured footage that later showed them sniffing various items and making a few loops around the store. She later posted the clip to TikTok, where it has amassed 111,000 views and continues to grow. In a light‑hearted comment, Kelso quipped, “They figured they could possibly get the bear‑necessities,” referencing the animals’ curious inspection of merchandise.
Social Media Fallout
The video’s spread sparked a mix of amusement and concern among viewers. Many praised the staff’s composure, while others used the footage to remind the public about keeping a safe distance from wildlife, especially in areas where bears frequently roam. Local authorities have not reported any injuries, and the bears left the premises without incident.
Why it Matters
This unusual encounter highlights the increasing overlap between human settlements and wildlife habitats in British Columbia. As urban expansion continues, incidents like this serve as a timely reminder for businesses and residents alike to adopt wildlife‑aware practices, ensuring both public safety and the well‑being of the province’s iconic bear populations.