Fall River Coyote That Bit Woman Tests Positive for Rabies

FALL RIVER (WBSM) — A coyote that had to be put down after it attacked and bit a woman in Fall River early Monday morning has tested positive for rabies.

Fall RIver Police made the announcement on Wednesday.

The attack happened around 5:45 a.m. on August 28, when a 54-year-old Fall River woman was walking her dog near the South Wind Apartments in the city’s North End. The woman encountered the coyote, and picked up her dog to shield it from the animal. That’s when the coyote bit her on her legs and left arm.

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She was able to fight off the coyote, and neighbors called the police. The coyote then made its way to the Fall River Country Club, where it attempted to attack a member of the grounds crew.

Police arrived on the scene and had to put the coyote down.

They said anyone who came in direct contact with the coyote should contact the Massachusetts Department of Public Health at (617) 983-6800.

However, those who were in the area but did not directly touch the animal are not at any risk, police said.