Alaska – A promotional video shoot for the Alaska aces hockey team took a startling turn when a grizzly bear charged towards both a player and the team’s mascot, “Buoy,” on Tuesday, May 21, 2024. The incident, captured on video, shows the bear rushing the pair during filming near the Curtis D. Menard Memorial Sports Center in Wasilla, Alaska.
John Hayden,a forward for the Alaska Aces,and the team’s mascot were participating in a social media video when the unexpected encounter occurred. The bear, estimated to weigh between 400-600 pounds, reportedly emerged from a wooded area adjacent to the sports center. Speedy reactions from the team’s security personnel prevented serious injury, with the bear being successfully deterred before making contact.
The Alaska Aces, a member of the ECHL (formerly known as the East Coast hockey League), are based in Wasilla, Alaska. The team plays its home games at the Curtis D. Menard Memorial Sports Center, which has a seating capacity of approximately 3,400. The incident highlights the realities of living and working in close proximity to wildlife in Alaska, where grizzly bear encounters are not uncommon, particularly during the spring and summer months as bears emerge from hibernation and seek food sources.
Local wildlife authorities were notified and are investigating the incident to determine the bear’s behavior and ensure public safety. The Alaska Department of Fish and game (ADF&G) recommends that individuals in bear country carry bear spray,make noise while hiking,and avoid approaching bears. The Aces have temporarily suspended outdoor promotional shoots pending a review of safety protocols.
