Aggressive Coyote Bit People In Stoneham: Police

STONEHAM, MA — Stoneham Police Chief James McIntyre and Animal Control Officer Brian Johnston issued a warning to residents over the weekend as they continue to search for an aggressive coyote. The coyote bit multiple people last week and is believed to be dangerous, police said.

The encounters happened in the area of the Stoneham Arena, Extra Space Storage and the Stoneham Oaks Golf Course.

A man told police he was bitten on the back of his shoe by a coyote around 8 p.m. Thursday at the Stoneham Arena, 101 Montvale Avenue. The animal's teeth did not puncture the man's shoe, and he was uninjured.

A man was approached by a coyote at Extra Space Storage, 96 Montvale Avenue, around 9 p.m. Thursday. The animal tugged at his pant leg but did not bite him, police said.

On Saturday, a woman was bitten by a coyote in the Stoneham Arena parking lot around 5:30 p.m., sustaining minor injuries. She was treated at an area hospital.

Officials believe the same coyote was involved in all three encounters.

Emergency crews responded to the Stoneham Arena and Stoneham Oaks Golf Course following Saturday 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," McIntyre said. "Above all else, please stay far away from this animal."

The Stoneham Oaks Golf Course closed Sunday out of an abundance of caution, and police 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.