Coyote Killed After String of Attacks in California Neighborhood

The animal was determined to be responsible for biting at least two victims in recent weeks.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 6:20pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up photograph of a coyote's paw print in the dirt, captured with a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conveying a stark, gritty, and investigative aesthetic.A recent spate of coyote attacks on residents in a Los Angeles County neighborhood has prompted wildlife officials to take action.Los Angeles Today

After a series of coyote attacks on three people in a Los Angeles County neighborhood within a week, state wildlife officials captured and killed the animal they believe was responsible for the incidents. The attacks injured an adult and two children, with the most recent incident occurring on March 31 when a 4-year-old boy was bitten twice in the driveway of his grandparents' home.

Why it matters

Coyote attacks on humans, while relatively rare, can pose a serious public safety concern, especially in urban and suburban areas where coyotes and people come into closer contact. This incident highlights the need for increased awareness and education around coyote behavior and how to safely coexist with these wild animals.

The details

DNA evidence connected the coyote that was killed to the March 31 attack and to one on February 11, in which another young child in Carson was bitten. It has not been determined if the same animal was responsible for the March 26 and March 30 attacks. The children in this week's attacks reportedly had minor wounds to their legs, not requiring stitches, and both received rabies vaccinations.

  • On March 26, a 31-year-old woman was bitten in Gardena.
  • On March 30, a 3-year-old boy was bitten in the parking lot of Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson.
  • On March 31, a 4-year-old boy was bitten twice in the driveway of his grandparents' home in Carson.
  • On February 11, another young child in Carson was bitten by the same coyote that was killed.

The players

Department of Fish and Wildlife

The state agency responsible for managing and protecting California's wildlife, including responding to incidents involving coyotes and other wild animals.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The Department of Fish and Wildlife will continue to monitor the area for any additional coyote activity and work with local authorities to ensure public safety.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a reminder for residents in urban and suburban areas to be vigilant about coyote encounters and take appropriate precautions to protect themselves and their families, such as keeping pets indoors, securing trash, and reporting any aggressive coyote behavior to local authorities.