A 2-year-old has suffered injuries after an unprovoked coyote attack in Whitby.
On Sunday, July 5, 2026, at approximately 8:30 p.m., members of Central West Division responded to an assist ambulance call at Vanier Park located at 99 Vanier Street. A 2-year-old was in the playground area when a coyote entered the park and attacked him.
The child sustained bite injuries to his face before his guardian and several bystanders were able to intervene and scare the coyote away.
The child suffered serious, non-life-threatening injuries, and was transported to a local-area hospital.
At approximately 9:20 p.m., members of Central West Division also responded to a separate incident involving a different coyote in the area of Harriet Street and Annes Street in Whitby. The animal was located by residents in distress and removed by officers. No physical injuries to residents have been reported in connection with this incident.
The Durham Regional Police Service is working closely with the Town of Whitby, Durham Region Health Department, and Whitby Animal Services, to investigate this incident, monitor coyote activity, and implement measures aimed at reducing the risk of future encounters.
While coyotes are a natural part of our local environment and incidents involving aggressive behaviour towards humans are rare, these encounters are taken very seriously. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and proactive, particularly near parks, playgrounds, trails, and other natural areas, especially during the early morning and evening hours when coyotes are most active.
Here are some guidelines to help ensure the safety of yourself, your family and your pets:
• Keep a safe distance from coyotes and never approach, feed, or interact with them.
• Supervise and keep children close.
• Keep pets on a short leash.
• Be aware of posted signage and follow any guidance.
• Remove food attractants such as unsecured garbage, pet food, bird seed, and fallen fruit.
• If you encounter a coyote, remain calm, do not run, make loud noises and wave arms. If approached, this will encourage them to leave the area.
The safety of our community remains our top priority. Residents are encouraged to report coyote sightings and concerning behaviour to Animal Services so that trends can be monitored and the appropriate actions can be taken.
Whitby sightings can be reported here: https://survey123.arcgis.com/share/c25cdb9b80b44104b95b5752918be8f8
Anyone who witnesses a coyote exhibiting aggressive behaviour or posing an immediate threat to public safety is asked to call 9-1-1.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
