STONEHAM — Police Chief James McIntyre and Animal Control Officer Brian Johnston report that the Stoneham Police Department and Board of Health conducted a search for an aggressive coyote last night.
Police are actively investigating reports of an aggressive coyote that has bit multiple people this week and is believed to be dangerous. All the incidents are believed to be tied to one animal, and have taken place in the area of the Stoneham Arena, Extra Space Storage and the Stoneham Oaks Golf Course.
On Friday, police were notified of an incident which occurred on Thursday, Nov. 19, at approximately 8 p.m., where a man was bitten on the back of his shoe by a coyote at the Stoneham Arena at 101 Montvale Ave. The animal’s teeth did not puncture the man’s shoe and he was not injured.
On Saturday, police were notified after a man was approached by a coyote which tugged at his pant leg, but did not bite him at Extra Space Storage at 96 Montvale Ave. on Thursday, at approximately 9 p.m. The man sustained no injuries.
On Saturday, Nov. 21, a woman was bitten by the coyote in the Stoneham Arena parking lot at approximately 5:30 p.m. and sustained what are believed to be minor injuries. She sought medical assistance at an area hospital.
Stoneham Police and Animal Control Officer Johnston, assisted with resources from the Stoneham Fire Department, responded to the Stoneham Arena and Stoneham Oaks Golf Course following last night’s incident and searched for the coyote, but were unable to locate the animal.
“This animal is clearly aggressive, and we urge residents to please be aware of this situation and report any sightings of this coyote to us promptly,” Chief McIntyre said. “Above all else, please stay far away from this animal.”
The Stoneham Oaks Golf Course behind the the Stoneham Arena is closed today out of an abundance of caution, and Stoneham Police and Animal Control Officer Johnston continue to investigate.
Stoneham residents are reminded of the following:
- Do not leave food outside, as coyotes may be attracted to it.
- Do not approach, feed, pet, or try to interact with wildlife, including coyotes, foxes, or other wild animals.
- It is always a good idea to have your pets on-leash. Small cats and dogs are vulnerable to predatory attacks by a number of animals.
- Keep an eye on children playing outside.
- Do not fire warning shots into the air to try to discourage coyotes from approaching.
Please report any sightings of the animal in the area of the Stoneham Arena, Extra Space Storage or Stoneham Oaks Golf Course to the Stoneham Police Department by calling 911.
###