STONEHAM, Mass. (WBZ NewsRadio) — Authorities in Stoneham are searching for an aggressive coyote that tried to attack at least three residents this week.
Stoneham Police Department said the "aggressive coyote" has bitten multiple people this week, and is "believed to be dangerous." All the incidents are believed to be tied to one animal, and have taken place in the area of the Stoneham Arena, Extra Space Storage and the Stoneham Oaks Golf Course.
On Friday, police were notified of an incident that occurred on Thursday at around 8 p.m., where a man was bitten on the back of his shoe by a coyote at the Stoneham Arena at 101 Montvale Ave. The animal's teeth did not puncture the man's shoe, and he was not injured.
Police were notified Saturday of another man who had been approached by a coyote about an hour after the first reported sighting on Thursday night. The man said a coyote had tugged at his pant leg, but did not bite him, at Extra Space Storage at 96 Montvale Ave. The man sustained no injuries.
On Saturday, a woman was bitten by a coyote in the Stoneham Arena parking lot at approximately 5:30 p.m. and sustained what are believed to be minor injuries. She sought medical assistance at an area hospital.
Stoneham Police and an Animal Control Officer responded to the Stoneham Arena and Stoneham Oaks Golf Course following the incident Saturday night and searched for the coyote, but were unable to locate the animal.
"This animal is clearly aggressive, and we urge residents to please be aware of this situation and report any sightings of this coyote to us promptly," Police James Chief McIntyre said. "Above all else, please stay far away from this animal."
The Stoneham Oaks Golf Course behind the the Stoneham Arena was closed Sunday out of an abundance of caution, and Stoneham Police and Animal Control Officer Johnston continue to investigate.
SPD said Stoneham residents are reminded not to leave food outside, as coyotes may be attracted to it, and not to approach, feed, pet, or try to interact with wildlife, including coyotes, foxes, or other wild animals.
WBZ NewsRadio's James Rojas (@JamesRojasWBZ) reports.
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