A 69-year-old security guard encountered a bear while using a public restroom outside JR Numata Station in Gunma Prefecture, northwest of Tokyo, on Friday around 1:20am. The guard spotted the animal, estimated at 3 to 5 feet long, peering into the bathroom as he prepared to leave. He fell backward but successfully kicked at the bear, causing it to flee. The man sustained minor leg abrasions and reported the incident after train service had ended for the day. This attack contributes to Japan’s record bear violence this year, with 13 fatalities reported since April. The rising bear encounters have prompted concerns across the country. One insurance company announced Friday it will offer coverage to hotels and leisure businesses for revenue losses caused by bear intrusions, reflecting growing anxiety about wildlife encounters. (Story URL)
PHONE TOPIC: What’s the worst thing that happened to you in a public bathroom?