A supermarket employee in Akita City was attacked by a bear in the store early in the morning on Nov 30, at around 6.20am, local time.

The city, located in the coastal plains of central Akita Prefecture and bordered by the Sea of Japan to the west, is known for its natural landscapes, which can sometimes bring wildlife into urban areas.

Local police reported that the employee, a man in his 40s, sustained injuries to his face and was promptly taken to a nearby hospital. Fortunately, his injuries are not life-threatening.

As at 11am, the bear, measuring approximately one meter in length, remained inside the store. In response, local authorities have set up two traps at the store’s entrance in an attempt to capture the animal.

The attack occurred near a doorway that connects the sales floor to the store’s backyard, while about 20 employees were preparing the store for opening. THE YOMIURI SHIMBUN/ASIA NEWS NETWORK