Port Orchard man recounts bear attack; Kitsap County park reopens

OLALLA, Kitsap County — It took awhile before Anthony Blasioli could even touch his own dogs' fur without being haunted by the memory of the bear that mauled him at Banner Forest Heritage Park on Labor Day weekend.

During a news conference this morning outside the park, Blasioli recounted the attack and how it has changed his life.

The 51-year-old software developer was riding his mountain bike, with his two dogs, through the Kitsap County park on Sept. 2 when he was mauled by the bear in what wildlife experts said was an unprovoked attack. Blasioli picked up his bike to protect himself, but the bear reached through the bike and ripped at his arm, face, back, neck and ear before backing off.

Blasioli was able to get on his bike and ride away. He encountered two other bikers, who called 911. Blasioli was taken to St. Joseph Medical Center in Tacoma.

Blasioli, of Port Orchard, lost his right ear and was initially told he could lose his left arm.

"He's actually lucky to be alive," said Gale Robinette, spokesman for the St. Joseph Medical Center.;

Blasioli said he rediscovered his faith and his own strength in the wake of the attack. But he said he has not yet braved a return to the woods. He was released from the hospital Sept. 7.

Meanwhile, Kitsap County has reopened the park even though wildlife agents have been unable to find the bear. Warning signs at Banner Forest Heritage Park caution visitors to watch out for bears.

State Fish and Wildlife Department agents tried to trap the bear after the Sept. 2 attack at the park north of Gig Harbor.

Information from The Associated Press is included in this report.