Toddler Flees Coyote Outside California Home

Surveillance footage captures 3-year-old running from wild animal in broad daylight.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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A 3-year-old boy in Pasadena, California had a terrifying encounter with a coyote outside his family's home on Monday. Surveillance video shows the toddler running out onto the driveway before freezing in fear as the wild animal chased after him.

Why it matters

Coyote sightings and attacks on humans, especially children, have been on the rise in urban and suburban areas of California in recent years as the animals expand their territory. This incident highlights the need for increased public awareness and safety measures to protect residents from potentially dangerous wildlife encounters.

The details

The surveillance footage shows the young boy running out onto the driveway before abruptly stopping and freezing in fear as the coyote approaches. The coyote then chases the toddler for several seconds before the child is able to run back inside to safety.

  • The incident occurred on Monday, February 26, 2026.

The players

Pasadena

A city in Los Angeles County, California where the incident took place.

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The takeaway

This close call serves as a reminder for parents and residents in California to be vigilant about coyote activity in their neighborhoods and take precautions to keep children and pets safe from potential attacks.