MMA fighter Hrishikesh Koloth died last month in a fatal black bear attack. He was 27.
Koloth, who was working on a mining site in Canada, died on May 8, multiple outlets reported.
The young worker, originally from Kerala, India, was an independent contractor for UraniumX Discovery Corp. He was working at the exploration company’s site approximately 50 miles northeast of Points North Landing in central Saskatchewan, when he was attacked and killed by the bear.
“We are deeply saddened by this tragic loss,” UraniumX CEO Esen Boldkhuu said in a statement at the time. “Our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to the family, friends, and colleagues of the deceased.”
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The company added, “The safety and well-being of our employees, contractors, and all personnel working on our projects is, and will always remain, our highest priority. We commend the rapid response of our on-site team, service providers, and emergency responders who attended the scene.”
The provincial Ministry of Community Safety told CBS News in a statement that same month that the black bear involved in the incident “was euthanized by a civilian on scene prior to officers arriving.” (The bear was transported to a regional veterinary college for a necropsy, otherwise known as an autopsy for animals.)
The region is reportedly home to both black bears and grizzly bears, and although fatal attacks are not common the Saskatchewan government issued a reminder about bear safety the day Koloth was killed.
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“Black bears are intelligent and ruled by their stomachs. Limiting attractants is the most effective way to reduce these interactions,” the authorities warned, according to CBS News, noting that campsites and homes near the woods can become hunting grounds for the animals when they’re hungry.
In the wake of the tragedy, UraniumX temporarily shut down its field operations and activities in the area as the company worked with authorities on the ongoing investigation.
Meanwhile, Hrishikesh’s loved ones, including brother Arjun Koloth, are mourning his death by speaking about his dreams and legacy.
Hrishikesh, who was living with his brother, was residing in Penticton, British Columbia, prior to his death, with hopes of becoming an MMA fighter. (Hrishikesh was set to start a new boxing coach job in June.)
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Arjun told CBC that his late brother was training in martial arts in Penticton and “everybody had high hopes on him.” He noted, “It shouldn’t have been like this.”
Looking back at his brother’s legacy, Arjun said he was “not scared of anything.”
He recalled that even if Hrishikesh was only given two days notice before a fight it didn’t phase him.
“Opponent heavier than him? Doesn’t matter. Win or lose, he just wanted to fight,” Arjun told the outlet. “That was his dream. That’s why he came here. He wanted to fight in the UFC.”
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