Rhode Island Hiker Kills Rabid Coyote with Bare Hands After Being Bitten on the Leg During Attack

The coyote “was likely involved” in a separate attack in Scituate, R.I., on Thursday, according to the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management

Authorities in Rhode Island say a man killed a coyote with his bare hands after the rabid animal attacked him while he was on a hike.

The victim, who has not been identified, was hiking through the woods in Johnston on Friday when the coyote attacked, according to NBC News and the Associated Press.

The Johnston man was bitten on the leg before killing the animal, which later tested positive for rabies, the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management said in a news release.

Related: Ma. Woman Describes ‘Scary’ Coyote Attack in Her Driveway: ‘It Just Had Me Trapped'

The victim pinned the coyote down by its neck and cut off its air supply to kill the animal, according to the AP.

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The coyote “was likely involved” in a separate attack in Scituate, R.I., on Thursday, authorities shared.

The department said the individual involved in the initial attack was a dog walker, according to NBC News and the AP.

Related: Coyote Killed After Attacking 3-Year-Old Girl on Cape Cod Beach, Says National Parks Service

Rhode Island State Veterinarian Dr. Scott Marshall said anyone in Scituate and Johnston who may have come into contact with the coyote is urged to call the Department of Health’s Infectious Disease division, the DEM said.

Without receiving the proper post-exposure vaccines, “virtually all cases are fatal," officials said.

“If pet owners in these two communities believe their pet has interacted with coyote, call or visit your veterinarian to make sure your pet’s rabies vaccination is current,” Marshall said in Monday’s news release.

Related: Young Girl Suffered 'Serious' Injuries During Coyote Attack Near Huntington Beach Pier: Police

In addition to being up-to-date on rabies vaccinations, the Departments of Health and Environmental Management suggest pet owners protect their animals “by always maintaining control” and not allowing them to wander unsupervised.

The departments also recommend avoiding all contact with stray or free-roaming domestic animals, as well as wild animals and feeding pets outdoors. Garbage cans should be “securely” covered too.

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