Haverhill Police say a coyote that approached at two-year-old and bit an adult defender Friday night is likely dead, but a search using a drone was unable to confirm the animal’s state and officials continue to urge caution.
Police issued a warning via social media Friday night and update Saturday that a “rogue coyote” was in the area of Forest Street and Broadway, Route 97.
“The coyote was initially observed approaching and closely watching a two-year-old child when a neighbor intervened. During the intervention, the coyote bit the neighbor on the arm. The neighbor was able to fend off the attack using a shovel, and the coyote went down,” a police statement said.
However, officials said, the coyote was able to rise and flee before being struck by an automobile. “Despite being struck, the coyote again got up and fled. It was then struck by a second motor vehicle and, remarkably, once again got up and continued running,” the statement reported.
Police said the coyote was last seen near a business block on Broadway across from Forest Street. They caution residents to “remain alert and take appropriate precautions when outdoors, particularly with children and pets.”