Brandeis student attacked by coyote
12/28/2012
In one of the stranger cases of animal bites Waltham has seen in some time, a Brandeis student was attacked by what may have been a coyote. The student was walking to her dorm and heard something moving in some bushes. Moments later, an animal jumped at her. Because it was dark, she could not make a positive identification of the animal.
The student was treated for an injury that may have been due to a scratch or bite from the animal. Witnesses reported seeing a coyote pack traveling in the area close to the time of the attack. There have also been previous sightings of coyotes in the area. Coyotes do not normally attack humans, but there have been reports of occasional bites or attacks, often on children who are alone. Coyotes may also pose a threat to small animals such as little dogs or cats.
Although coyote attacks are rare, they are more likely to happen when a person is alone. Dog attacks are also more likely when someone is unaccompanied. In this case, the attacking animal could have been a dog rather than a coyote; if that is the case, it will be important for the authorities to identify the animal’s owner so that he or she can be held accountable.
Victims who are injured by a dog or other animal bites may be able to collect damages from the owner. Owners are required to keep their pets under control at all times, and when they fail to do so, the law allows the victims to recover damages for their injuries. An attorney can examine the facts of a case and assists victims in recovering damages due to animal bites.
Source: CBS Boston, “Brandeis Student Attacked, Possibly By A Coyote,” Dec. 13, 2012
Categories: Dog Bites & Animal Attacks
