Dallas Deputy Marshal Shoots Aggressive Coyote Near Katy Trail

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An aggressive coyote encountered near Katy Trail in Dallas.

News Summary

In Dallas, a deputy marshal shot and killed a coyote near the Katy Trail after a citizen reported it approaching while walking dogs. The incident occurred near Reverchon Park. While some residents support the decision for safety reasons, others argue for alternative wildlife management strategies. Dallas police are investigating the shooting, a standard procedure following any officer-involved discharges. The coyote’s remains will undergo testing, and residents are urged to report any aggressive coyote sightings to maintain community safety.

Dallas – A Dallas deputy marshal shot and killed an aggressive coyote near the Katy Trail on Tuesday afternoon after receiving a report from a citizen. The incident unfolded near Reverchon Park when a man, while walking his dogs, alerted authorities about the coyote approaching him.

Rick Ericson, the public information officer for the City of Dallas, confirmed the details of the encounter and the measures taken by the deputy marshal. Upon investigation, the deputy marshal located the coyote in the park, prompting several other deputy marshals to establish a perimeter to contain the animal. As the coyote began moving toward a heavily populated area of the Katy Trail, the marshal discharged one round, ultimately killing the coyote. Fortunately, no injuries were reported among the officials or the citizen who initially made the report.

The remains of the coyote are set to undergo testing in a laboratory, a procedure in line with standard regulations following such incidents. Dallas police have initiated an investigation into the shooting, which is routine protocol whenever an officer discharges their weapon while on duty.

Responses from the public regarding the shooting reflect a split opinion. Some individuals support the marshal’s decision, citing the potential dangers posed by aggressive coyotes. Others believe that alternative strategies for managing wildlife encounters should have been explored. Notably, a Dallas resident expressed approval of the shooting due to concerns regarding coyote threats to community safety. Conversely, another frequent park visitor criticized the response and emphasized the need for improved wildlife management practices.

Randall Kennedy from DFW Wildlife Control provided context regarding the behavior of coyotes, noting that aggressive actions often correlate with the seasonal period when coyote pups are born. The last sighting of a coyote in the vicinity occurred in August, and there have been no reported cases of rabies among coyotes in Dallas this year.

Dallas Animal Services urges residents to report any aggressive coyote sightings to allow for appropriate responses and actions in order to maintain safety in the community. This incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing interactions between urban wildlife and city residents and raises questions about managing wildlife in populated areas effectively.