Toddler Chased by 'Giant' Coyote Outside Pasadena Home

Surveillance footage captures the terrifying encounter as the child screams for his mother.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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A three-year-old boy in Pasadena, California was chased by a large coyote outside his home on Monday. Surveillance video shows the toddler running back to the house screaming, with the coyote following close behind. The boy's mother, Aida Svelto, said she was shocked by how close the coyote came and feared her child would have been bitten if she hadn't been there.

Why it matters

Coyote sightings and attacks on pets and children have been on the rise in California, raising concerns about public safety and wildlife management. This incident highlights the need for increased education and precautions for residents living in areas with coyote populations.

The details

The surveillance footage shows the three-year-old, Salvo Bessemer, going outside the gate of his home when the large coyote suddenly appears and chases him back towards the house. Salvo's mother, Aida Svelto, said she heard her son's screams and saw the coyote following him closely before it turned and ran away after another scream was heard. Svelto said coyotes are common in the neighborhood but this one was much bigger and scarier than usual.

  • The incident occurred on Monday, February 24, 2026.

The players

Salvo Bessemer

A three-year-old boy who was chased by a coyote outside his home in Pasadena, California.

Aida Svelto

The mother of Salvo Bessemer, who witnessed the coyote chasing her son and was shocked by how close the animal came to her child.

California Department of Fish and Wildlife

The state agency that provides information about coyotes and their behavior in California.

Kevin McManus

A representative from Pasadena Humane who commented that coyote activity increases during mating season.

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What they’re saying

“Sal went out the gate like he always does before me. Then I heard a scream, and Sal came running back. He grabbed onto my legs, then I screamed because I saw a big, giant coyote.”

— Aida Svelto, Mother of Salvo Bessemer (ABC 7)

“We have seen them, but they typically just stay on the street. I really didn't feel nervous. Now I'm nervous. This one was bigger and scarier, and I just really didn't think that he would go after a kid. It's one thing to see them go after a chihuahua or rabbit or whatever, but he's pretty big, so it was scary.”

— Aida Svelto, Mother of Salvo Bessemer (ABC 7)

What’s next

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife is expected to provide additional guidance to Pasadena residents on how to safely coexist with coyotes in the area.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for increased vigilance and education around coyote encounters, especially in urban and suburban areas where these animals are becoming more prevalent. Residents must take proactive measures to secure their homes and yards, and be prepared to respond appropriately if confronted by a coyote to ensure the safety of their families and pets.