My first question is - did he have any food or aromatic items in his tent which might have attracted the bear? This seems to be a common finding in many bear attacks - a sloppy campsite.

My experience with bear country is fairly limited. On one overnight hike in Denali National park, in a locality with recent bear sightings, our tent was 100 yards distant from our food prep and eating area, and our bear cans with all smellies was another 100 yards distant, per recommendations. The hassle was worth it - it was one of the most beautiful views I have ever witnessed...

On the Channel Islands, we don't have bears, just Great White Sharks and their buddies.