**Willow Creek, Oregon –** A bizarre and unsettling incident unfolded late yesterday afternoon in the rural outskirts of Willow Creek, Oregon, as local resident Dale Lewis was mistakenly identified as a bear and subjected to a harrowing pursuit involving multiple shotguns. Authorities are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the event, which has left the community reeling and raised serious questions about miscommunication and escalating tensions.

The incident began around 4:30 PM when a group of teenagers, reportedly celebrating a birthday, encountered Mr. Lewis while he was working on repairs to his dilapidated cabin. According to eyewitness accounts, the teenagers, initially startled by Mr. Lewis’s appearance – a large, bearded man in flannel and work boots – quickly assumed he was a large, displaced bear. Panic ensued, and several members of the group reportedly discharged their firearms in the direction of Mr. Lewis.

“It all happened so fast,” recounted Sarah Miller, one of the teenagers involved. “We were just… scared. We thought he was going to attack. We didn’t think, you know? It was a pretty crazy reaction.”

Mr. Lewis, understandably confused and alarmed by the gunfire, attempted to explain he was a human being, but his words were largely dismissed. He was then pursued across a wooded area by the teenagers and their parents, who armed themselves with various firearms. Local Sheriff Brody confirmed that officers arrived on the scene within minutes, attempting to de-escalate the situation and identify the individuals involved.

“We had to separate Mr. Lewis from the group and ensure his safety,” Sheriff Brody stated during a press briefing this morning. “The situation was incredibly volatile. It’s fortunate no one was seriously injured.” Mr. Lewis sustained minor scratches and bruising, and is currently receiving medical attention at Willow Creek General Hospital.

The incident has sparked a wider debate within the small, tight-knit community. Many residents have expressed shock and concern over the events, emphasizing the potential for tragic consequences arising from misunderstandings. Local businessman and longtime resident, Harold Jenkins, commented, “You’d think in a town like this, folks would take the time to actually *talk* to each other before reaching for a gun. It’s just… unsettling.”

An investigation is ongoing, with authorities focusing on determining the sequence of events leading to the mistaken identity and the subsequent use of firearms. No charges have been filed at this time, but the incident is expected to be reviewed by the county’s district attorney.