A wild animal exhibiting unusual aggression has attacked at least three people in Lebanon, New Hampshire, over a two-day period, prompting an alert from local authorities who suspect rabies.
The incidents began Sunday in the Centerra Park area, with two more attacks reported by Monday evening, according to the Lebanon Police Department. While witnesses have described the creature as a gray fox or a fisher, police have not yet confirmed its identity or managed to locate it.
Surveillance footage captured the small, gray animal charging at two individuals near a U-Haul truck in a parking lot. In one instance, the animal grabbed a man's bag and then lunged at his feet and legs before he kicked it away. The animal subsequently fled under the truck.
Lebanon Police Chief Phillip Roberts stated that the animal's behavior is concerning and potentially indicative of rabies. "And then, you know, the fact that it’s coming out and scratching and biting at people. That’s obviously a concern to us," Roberts said, as reported by WMUR.
Police are collaborating with the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department in an effort to find the animal and assess its health. Residents, employees, and visitors in the affected area have been advised to be vigilant and avoid any wild animals displaying aggressive or unusual behavior.
Authorities are urging the public not to approach, attempt to capture, feed, or interact with the animal. Anyone who spots the creature should move to a safe location and contact Lebanon police or Fish and Game immediately. Additionally, anyone bitten or scratched by a wild animal is advised to thoroughly wash the affected area with soap and water and seek prompt medical attention, due to the risk of rabies exposure.