Aggressive Fox Attacks Multiple People in Upstate New York

An aggressive fox that attacked a woman, tried to bite another resident, and later charged at a father and his two young children has an Upstate New York neighborhood on edge.

According to the Mechanicville Police Department, it all started over the weekend when officers responded to multiple reports involving the fox in the Elizabeth Street and North Seventh Avenue area between Sunday evening and Monday morning.

Fox Attacks in Upstate New York

The first call came in Sunday after a woman told police she was doing yard work outside her home when a large fox suddenly ran toward her and bit her on the lower leg. She suffered a bleeding injury and was taken to a local hospital for treatment.

Fox Attacks People in Upstate New York

As officers searched the area, another resident reported seeing what appeared to be the same fox run through their yard and attempt to bite her elderly father before disappearing into nearby brush.

Fox Attempts to Attack a Dad and His Children

Then, early Monday morning, police received another frightening call. A father reported that he and his two young children were outside when the fox emerged from brush behind a home on Elizabeth Street and charged directly at them. Thankfully, the family was able to get inside the house and shut the front door before anyone was hurt.

Fox Attack Upstate New York

After several additional sightings, officers were able to locate the fox in the Elizabeth Street area. Police said the animal was walking unsteadily and displaying aggressive behavior consistent with the earlier reports. Because of the apparent danger to the public, officers euthanized the fox.

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The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation has been notified, and the fox has been submitted for testing. Officials say it has not yet been determined if the animal was infected with rabies or another illness.

Police are asking anyone who believes they, or one of their pets, may have had physical contact with the fox to contact their healthcare provider or veterinarian. Additional information will be released once test results become available.