Rabies Alert Issued After Coyote Attacks in Westchester County, Latest York

Westchester County health officials have issued an alert after a coyote suspected of having rabies attacked three people and two dogs in the Eastchester and Bronxville area on Monday, March 9, 2026. The animal has since been euthanized, but residents are urged to seize precautions.

Details of the Attacks

The attacks occurred near Siwanoy Country Club and Twin Lakes Park. One resident, Michael Hynes, recounted how the coyote attacked him and his two dogs, Skittles and Shamrock, during a morning walk. A neighbor, Brian, intervened to support scare the coyote away. Police believe the coyote responsible for the attacks has been euthanized, but caution that other coyotes may be present in the area. News 12 Westchester reports that Shamrock sustained a minor injury.

What to Do If Bitten or Scratched

Anyone bitten or scratched by an animal in Westchester County should immediately seek medical care and report the incident to the Health Department at 914-813-5000. Prompt medical attention is crucial, as rabies is a serious and potentially fatal disease.

Recognizing Rabies in Animals

Health officials advise residents to be aware of the signs of rabies in animals. Unusual behavior can be an early indicator. This includes:

• Uncommon aggressiveness
• Unusual tameness or lack of fear of people
• Irritability
• Excitement
• Lethargy
• Staggering
• Frothing at the mouth

How Rabies Spreads

Rabies is most commonly found in wild animals such as raccoons, skunks, bats, foxes, deer, groundhogs, and coyotes, according to the New York State Department of Health. However, any mammal can contract the virus, including domestic pets like dogs and cats.

The virus is transmitted through the saliva of infected animals, typically via a bite, or if saliva enters an animal’s eyes, nose, mouth, or a break in the skin. Rabies attacks the central nervous system and can be fatal if left untreated.

Rabies in Westchester County and New York State

Rabid animals have been found in all counties in New York State. In 2025, the Wadsworth Center Rabies Laboratory confirmed rabies in 313 wild and domestic animals. While rabies is present year-round, the risk of exposure is higher during warmer months when people and pets spend more time outdoors.

Preventative Measures

Residents are advised to take the following precautions:

• Do not leave young children or pets unattended in yards.
• Take extra precautions when walking dogs.
• Ensure pets are up-to-date on their rabies vaccinations.
• Avoid contact with wild or stray animals.
• Report any animal exhibiting unusual behavior to the authorities.

About Bronxville and Eastchester

Bronxville is a village located in Westchester County, New York, approximately 15 miles north of Midtown Manhattan. According to Wikipedia, the village comprises one square mile of land and had a population of 6,656 as of the 2020 U.S. Census. Eastchester is the town that encompasses Bronxville.