Following the sound, Ruiz found a burned car. Inside, a scorched mother bear cradled her cub’s lifeless body. She wasn’t aggressive—only grieving. Her eyes met his, tired and pleading, refusing to leave her child behind.

Wildlife rescuers arrived hours later. With hushed voices and slow steps, they eventually coaxed her out. When a rescuer wrapped the cub gently, she followed, watching every move.