A hunter accused of killing a well-known grizzly bear in the Klukshu village area of Kluane has had his charges stayed by Yukon justice officials.

Those officials are remaining tight-lipped on the matter.

Last autumn, the remains of a grizzly were found near the village. It’s suspected the bear was a large specimen known as “The Mayor”, which a local elder had trained to stay away from the village. As a dominant bear, the presence of “The Mayor” kept smaller bears away from the village as well. 

Noted local photographer Peter Mather was one of the first to stumble on the remains.

Last fall, he told local media he was disturbed by what happened.

Linea Volkering, a spokesperson for Yukon Conservation Officers Services, confirmed Tuesday to The Yukon Star that the charges have been stayed.

“Yukon Conservation Officer Services worked collaboratively with Justice on this matter and the determination to stay the charges was made based on the results of the evidence and information collected during the investigation,” Volkering said.

 “Yukon Conservation Officer Services has concluded its investigation, and the file is now closed.”

No other details on the decision are available.

A stay in the charges is somewhat different than a simple withdrawal. The charges could be reinstated anytime within a year if new evidence is presented.