Coyote that attacked 54-year-old woman in Fall River tests positive for rabies

An aggressive coyote that was put down in Fall River after two attacks Monday morning, has tested positive for rabies.

According to Detective Sergeant Moses Pereira, at approximately 5:45 a.m., officers responded to the area of South Winds Apartments after receiving reports of a female being attacked by a coyote.

Upon arrival, it was discovered that a 54-year-old female had been walking her dog, when she was attacked by a coyote. She sustained bite wounds to both legs. She was transported to Rhode Island Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries as a result of the attack.

While units were on scene, a second call for service was received from the Fall River Country Club. Apparently, the coyote attempted to attack members of the grounds crew. They were able to keep the animal at bay until officers arrived.

Due to the animal’s aggressive behavior officers were forced to put it down to prevent any further attacks on residents or patrons of the Country Club.

Pereira stated on Wednesday that the Department has been notified that the coyote involved in the attack has tested positive for rabies.

Anyone who may have come in direct contact with the coyote is asked to contact the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) at 617-983-6800.

Those who were in the area but did not directly touch the animal are NOT at any risk.