Kiwi Runner Survives Brutal Bear Attack in Japan

On a recent trail run in the Myoko forests of Japan's Niigata prefecture, 32-year-old New Zealander Billy Halloran encountered a pair of Asiatic black bears. As he cautiously stepped back, one of the bears, estimated to weigh between 60-70 kilograms, advanced towards him. The bear then attacked, grabbing Halloran's arm and pushing him to the ground.

The attack left Halloran with severe injuries, including a "fully snapped" arm hanging at an unnatural angle and a bleeding leg. Despite the pain, Halloran managed to run nearly a kilometer to meet his wife and wait for an ambulance. Since the attack in early October 2025, Halloran has undergone three surgeries, including a hip graft to replace bone bitten off by the bear and the insertion of metal plates in his arm.

Halloran considers himself fortunate to have survived the encounter, stating, "I'm feeling pretty grateful and pretty lucky to have gotten away from the situation, especially given the number of instances where people haven't." Japan has seen a surge in bear attacks this year, with over 100 people injured and at least seven killed, the highest figures since record-keeping began in 2006. Authorities have announced tougher measures to curb the bear population, while residents have started taking precautions, including carrying bells or blasting loud music.