Search ends with grim discovery

Police in Iwate Prefecture found a man’s body near a hot-spring facility in Kitakami a day after staff reported a co-worker missing during morning cleaning. Investigators said a 1.5-meter male bear was hunted in nearby woods on Friday, and blood traces and animal hair were discovered around the open-air bath and fence line. The missing worker’s glasses and tools were found at the scene. Authorities believe the victim, about 60, was dragged from the site in a rare but increasingly publicized encounter.

Managing wildlife risks near towns

Local officials have expanded permissions for wildlife control teams to shoot bears entering residential zones, reflecting a rise in sightings around northern cities. Conservation groups urge better garbage management, fencing, and warnings during peak foraging seasons as climate and habitat changes push animals closer to people. The incident highlights the delicate balance between safety, tourism, and conservation in onsen regions that rely on nature as a draw. Community patrols and early alerts are likely to be reinforced ahead of autumn hiking weekends.