Mother in Ashford fends off raccoon that attacked her daughter

Animal Control Officer in Ashford Reports Child Bitten by Raccoon

In a shocking incident in Ashford, a child was attacked by a raccoon, leaving the community on edge. The animal control officer who responded to the scene described the harrowing experience, stating that the raccoon had wrapped its arms around the child’s leg, causing significant pain.

The incident, which was captured on a surveillance camera, occurred on Fitts Road early in the morning. The child, 5-year-old Rylee MacNamara, recounted the terrifying ordeal, explaining how the raccoon latched onto her leg and refused to let go. It took her mother’s quick thinking and intervention to pry the animal off her.

Rylee and her mother sustained bite marks and scratches during the attack, prompting them to seek medical attention at the hospital. They received rabies shots as a precautionary measure and were back home within a few hours. The family’s quick actions potentially prevented a more serious outcome from the encounter.

Neighbors in the area expressed concern over the incident, with one resident highlighting the dangers posed by wild animals in the wooded surroundings. Animal control officers conducted a search in the area to locate the raccoon, but it had fled into the woods before they could apprehend it.

As a safety precaution, the MacNamara family plans to set traps around their property to prevent any further encounters with potentially rabid animals. Rylee and her mother will continue to undergo regular medical check-ups over the next few weeks to monitor their health.

The community has been shaken by the incident, with residents emphasizing the importance of vigilance when interacting with wildlife. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers that lurk in the natural environment, underscoring the need for caution and awareness when navigating outdoor spaces.

The MacNamara family has vowed to take extra precautions to ensure the safety of their children, pledging to supervise them closely when outdoors. The incident has sparked a sense of urgency among residents to remain vigilant and proactive in safeguarding against potential wildlife encounters.

As the community grapples with the aftermath of the raccoon attack, authorities are urging residents to report any suspicious animal behavior to prevent similar incidents in the future. The incident serves as a sobering reminder of the unpredictable nature of wildlife and the importance of taking proactive measures to mitigate risks.