Arlington, Texas – In swift action following reports of three children being bitten by a coyote since Saturday, the Arlington Police Department and Arlington Animal Services successfully captured a coyote at Parkway Central Park on Thursday morning. This intervention was part of a larger effort to ensure public safety after the alarming incidents.
The capture was executed using a non-lethal method; patrol officers deployed a baton round, which is distinctively not a firearm, to momentarily stun the coyote. This strategic approach allowed the officers to safely harness the animal and remove it from the park, minimizing risk to both the coyote and themselves.
The operation began before dawn, with both Animal Services and patrol officers patrolling the park to serve as a protective measure for the community, especially for children walking to school. The use of drones played a crucial role in monitoring movement within the wooded areas of the park, aiding in the coyote’s detection and capture.
Sgt. Eric Belisle of the APD recounted the moment of the capture, highlighting the coyote’s charge towards them and the decisive use of less lethal force to subdue the animal effectively.
Following the capture, the city of Arlington has announced that the captured coyote will be euthanized and tested for rabies by Texas Health and Human Services, reflecting a precautionary approach to public health and safety.
Despite the successful operation, the police acknowledge the presence of other coyotes in the vicinity, prompting continued vigilance. The park will remain closed until it is deemed safe for the public, underscoring the community’s ongoing efforts to manage wildlife encounters responsibly and protect its residents.
