A coyote euthanized in Carson, California, has been linked to multiple attacks on children, including a recent incident involving a 4-year-old boy. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife confirmed that DNA testing connected the animal to an earlier attack on a child near an elementary school on February 11. The coyote was captured and humanely euthanized on April 2, following standard protocol for animals that attack humans.
Surveillance footage captured the coyote biting and attempting to drag the 4-year-old boy in his grandparents' driveway on Tuesday. The boy suffered seven puncture wounds but survived the attack. His mother, Sarina Donohoo, described the incident as terrifying, noting the coyote left after she ran inside with her son. The department is investigating two additional coyote attacks reported on April 2, including one involving a 31-year-old woman in Gardena and another at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson.
Authorities believe the coyote may have been a 'repeat offender,' with potential links to more attacks than initially reported. The department had previously attempted to capture the animal after the February incident but was unsuccessful until April 2. The coyote's behavior has raised concerns about wildlife interactions in residential areas, particularly involving children.