Bear spray a disturbing weapon of choice for criminals in Canada (2024)

A 29-year-old Toronto man is accused of spraying bear spray at people inside Union Station, forcing a partial evacuation at the Toronto transportation hub.

Myles Kuhlberg engaged in a verbal dispute with a man, spraying him and also exposing other people inside the station to the bear spray, police say. Kuhlberg then allegedly fled the area and was later arrested. He is charged with assault with a weapon, possession of a weapon and mischief/interfering with lawful use of property, police said.

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While one person was reportedly doused, no injuries were reported in the Monday evening incident.

However, mace designed to deter bears can cause serious damage if used on people.

Here’s what you should know about the rise in bear spray attacks and the laws around its use and misuse in Canada.

How common are bear spray incidents?

Vancouver police data found that bear spray was involved in 429 assaults, robberies and threats in 2018, according to a city report. That number jumped to 729 in 2022, a 68 per cent increase.

Vancouver council voted unanimously to restrict bear spray sales to anyone under 19 and to keep it locked up and maintain a record of who is buying the spray.

Edmonton police recorded 3,424 incidents of bear spray use in 2020, according to CBC.

National Post has reached out to Toronto Police about the number of bear spray incidents in recent years and will update the story when we hear back.

What are the dangers of bear spray?

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Bear spray has farther reach and more spread than human pepper spray. A can of bear spray releases a “cone-shaped cloud of pepper spray to a distance of approximately 10 m and at a speed of over 100 km/h,” according to Parks Canada.

While bear spray is not lethal it “inflames the bear’s eyes and upper respiratory system, causing intense burning,” according to the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee.

“Bear spray in your face causes involuntary eye closure and pain for up to 45 minutes,” the agency adds. “At very close range, the pressure can cause permanent eye damage.”

The active ingredient in bear spray is capsaicin, which is derived from chili peppers. Bear spray contains a 2 per cent concentration of capsaicin and other related capsaicinoids, according to Wildlife B.C., a slightly higher percentage than human pepper spray.

What are the laws surrounding bear spray use in Canada?

Carrying bear spray or human pepper for self-defence away from bear country may result in weapons charges. Concealed carry of bear spray could result in a five year prison sentence under section 90 of the Canada’s Criminal Code. Charges of administering a noxious substance (section 245 of the Code) and assault charges can also stem from illegal bear spray use.

While most pepper sprays are generally illegal to carry in urban environments, dog sprays would be different. They have lower capsaicin content than human pepper spray and can be used to neutralize dog and coyotes. They are still illegal to use against humans.

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