04.28.2022 | 9:45 PM | HUNTINGTON BEACH – A coyote attack on a toddler prompted authorities to chase and open fire on the animal, Thursday night.
The incident began to unfold when the coyote bit a female toddler on the HB City Beach, just north of the pier, around 9:45 PM.
Police, lifeguards, and firefighters all responded to the scene where they located the injured child and rushed her to an area hospital. Her injuries were described as serious but non-life-threatening, police said.
Authorities located the coyote still on the beach and began chasing the animal in attempt to catch it.
Officers ultimately opened fire on the coyote reportedly wounding it as it fled on the beach, according to radio traffic.
The coyote was able to escape the grasp of the law and was located deceased on the beach the next morning.
Officials suspect the coyote may be the same as one previously spotted by beachgoers about a week prior.
Coyote trapping efforts have been increased in the city over the past several weeks, police said.
Anyone who witnesses a coyote is asked to notify the city by calling (714) 960-8811.
