Coyote attack kills beloved 14-year-old chihuahua in Vista

Cecille Reyes lost her dog Bento in a coyote attack just steps from her front door, raising awareness about coyote threats to pets

Mar. 19, 2026 at 5:36am

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Cecille Reyes' 14-year-old chihuahua, Bento, was killed in a coyote attack earlier this month outside her condominium complex in Vista, California. The attack happened while Reyes was away on a business trip, with a dog sitter present. Bento was grabbed by a coyote and suffered fatal injuries, devastating Reyes. The incident has shocked neighbors and prompted Reyes to share her story to raise awareness about coyote threats to pets, especially during mating and pupping season.

Why it matters

Coyote attacks on pets are becoming more common in San Diego as the animals become more aggressive and less fearful of people during breeding season. This tragic incident highlights the need for pet owners to be vigilant and take preventive measures to protect their animals, even in seemingly safe, gated areas.

The details

The attack happened on March 5 while Reyes was in Germany on a business trip. A dog sitter had let Bento and Reyes' other dog, a 16-year-old chihuahua mix named Bullgogi, outside in a common area of the gated complex. Less than a minute later, a coyote grabbed Bento and carried him away. Bento was later recovered, but his injuries were fatal as the coyote had severed an artery.

  • The attack occurred on March 5, 2026.
  • San Diego is currently observing Coyote Awareness Week.

The players

Cecille Reyes

The owner of the 14-year-old chihuahua, Bento, who was killed in the coyote attack.

Bento

Reyes' 14-year-old chihuahua who was killed in the coyote attack.

Bullgogi

Reyes' 16-year-old chihuahua mix who managed to escape the attack uninjured.

San Diego Humane Society

The agency that emphasizes coexistence with wildlife and encourages residents to take preventive measures to protect their pets from coyotes.

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What they’re saying

“He was my boy. He was the most gentle soul, so goofy.”

— Cecille Reyes

“You'd think it was safe. It's not. They're just lurking.”

— Cecille Reyes

“I lost it. I was devastated.”

— Cecille Reyes

What’s next

The San Diego Humane Society is reminding residents to take preventive measures to protect their pets from coyotes, especially during mating and pupping season.

The takeaway

This tragic incident highlights the need for pet owners to be vigilant and take proactive steps to safeguard their animals, even in seemingly secure areas, as coyotes become more aggressive during breeding season and pose a serious threat to small pets.