Bear Attack in Alaska Leaves Nurse Critically Injured—Community Rallies Behind Her
Ariean Fabrizio Colton.Credit : GoFundMe/Photo by Bob Brewer on Unsplash
On August 26, 2025, nurse and mother of three, Ariean Fabrizio Colton, was critically injured in a brown bear attack near her home outside Kenai, Alaska. While on a morning jog, she was ambushed by a bear that charged from a nearby property. Reports say the bear dragged her approximately 100 yards before the incident ended.
Neighbors, alerted by the commotion, discovered her conscious but with severe injuries to her face, scalp, and head. Emergency responders were called, and she was medevaced to Anchorage—more than two hours away—for lifesaving care.
Her Current Status and Recovery
Ariean is stable following an initial surgery but faces a long recovery involving multiple operations and extended rehabilitation. Her family, new to Alaska this summer, is managing the challenges of distance, medical costs, and ongoing care needs.
The Community's Response
A GoFundMe page has been created to support the Colton family as they navigate this difficult time. Updates on Ariean’s condition, including news of her first surgery, are being shared regularly. The community has already responded with financial contributions, prayers, and messages of encouragement.
Safety Considerations in Bear Country
As a nurse who also lives in grizzly and black bear country, I know firsthand that encounters like this are rare—but they are real. This attack is a sobering reminder of how quickly wildlife interactions can escalate. Alaska authorities continue patrolling the area, urging vigilance. For nurses, families, and outdoor enthusiasts, here are important bear safety practices to keep in mind:
- Don’t hike or jog alone – travel in groups whenever possible.
- Carry bear spray – keep it accessible (not in your backpack) and know how to use it.
- Make noise – talk, clap, or use bells to avoid surprising bears.
- Stay alert – avoid headphones or distractions that can reduce awareness of your surroundings.
- Keep dogs leashed – off-leash pets can provoke bears and bring danger back to you.
- Avoid dawn and dusk outings – bears are more active during these times.
- Secure attractants – store food, garbage, and birdseed properly to avoid drawing bears close to homes.
- Know the signs of bear activity – tracks, scat, and overturned logs are clues to turn back.
- Have an exit plan – know your surroundings and how to retreat calmly if you encounter wildlife.
Moving Forward
The nursing community, along with friends and neighbors, is rallying behind Ariean and her family. For updates on her recovery or to contribute to her support, visit the Colton family’s GoFundMe page and follow regional news coverage.
🤔Nurses, share your thoughts in the discussion forum below!
If you have a news story that deserves to be heard, we want to amplify it to our massive community of millions of nurses! Get your story in front of Nurse.org Editors now - click here to fill out our quick submission form today! Or email info@nurse.org.
