Coyote Bites Arizona 4-Year-Old in Third Animal Attack, Wildlife Officials Say

Arizona wildlife officials are investigating a string of coyote attacks, including one that injured a 4-year-old.

Arizona Game and Fish Department wildlife officers are searching for the coyote or coyotes that have bitten three people since Saturday. The attacks occurred in the area east of I-17 and Happy Valley Road in Phoenix, the department said in a news release.

Officials said the 4-year-old was bitten on the lower leg on Saturday while walking with family members. A man was bitten while jogging in the same area on Saturday. A third bite happened Monday when a man was bitten on his heel.

All three people received medical treatment and rabies shots, the department said. Officers removed one coyote from the area Sunday evening and are searching for others.

Officials ask the public to stay aware of their surroundings and keep their distance from wildlife. Anyone who sees a coyote in the area bordered by I-17 east to 19th Avenue and Pinnacle Peak Road north to Jomax Road is asked to call wildlife officials at 623-236-7201.

There have been 28 coyote attacks in the Phoenix area over the last 26 years, the department said.