York Regional Police have issued a warning to the public after a second coyote attack in Markham. In a post Monday on X, police advised that there has been another coyote encounter in the area of McCowan Road and 16th Avenue. Reports indicate that the attack on Sunday night involved a child under the age of six who was not seriously injured.
The warning comes after a 16-year-old girl was taken to hospital with minor injuries last Thursday after she was bitten by a coyote. That incident occurred around 8:15 a.m. in the Mingay and Bur Oak Avenues area.
Police on Monday said that the green spaces involved include: Bruce Boyd Parkette, Russell Carter Tefft Park, Laurie Park, Jeffreys Pond, Ross Brown Park, Nordlingen Park, Berczy Park, and Helsey Trail.
“Residents, pedestrians, and pet owners are asked to exercise caution. If you are in the area, remain alert, keep a safe distance from any wildlife, and do not approach or attempt to feed a coyote,” police advised. “Anyone who sees a coyote behaving aggressively, lingering near people, or appearing sick or injured is asked to call police immediately. If there is an immediate threat to public safety, call 911.”
After Thursday’s incident, a City of Markham spokesperson said, “The City of Markham’s animal services team is actively investigating the incident in coordination with York Regional Police, with a continued focus on community safety. The city’s animal services team will be patrolling the area over the next few days, as well as installing and increasing signage in the area.”
