Los Angeles officials euthanize coyote after toddler injured in Atwater Village

Key points

• A 16-month-old child was injured by a coyote in the 3300 block of Glenhurst Avenue, Atwater Village, on Friday, October 17, 2026.
• The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) euthanized a coyote found in the area later that evening.
• DNA samples from the child and the coyote are being analyzed to determine if the euthanized animal was the one that injured the child.
• The child was treated at a local hospital and subsequently released.
• In August 2026, residents reported a coyote nicknamed 'Wiley' chasing children and pets in Atwater Village, raising concerns about wildlife behavior.
• CDFW reiterated that feeding wildlife is illegal and urged residents to secure spaces and remove items that attract coyotes.

Background

This incident follows earlier reports in August 2026 of a coyote nicknamed 'Wiley' roaming Atwater Village and chasing children and pets. Residents had raised concerns about the animal’s behavior, with some speculating that it may have been fed by a neighbor. The current incident has intensified debates about wildlife management in urban areas and the risks associated with human-wildlife interactions.

How outlets are covering it

CBS News and NBC Los Angeles reported the incident based on statements from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), emphasizing the euthanization of the coyote and the ongoing DNA analysis. The Eastsider LA provided additional context, noting that a resident claimed the toddler was bitten and carried a short distance, though CDFW did not specify the nature of the injury. The Eastsider also highlighted community concerns about a coyote named 'Wiley' in August and included a comment from a resident blaming a neighbor for feeding the coyote, which CDFW did not confirm. All outlets agreed on the basic facts: the child’s injury, the coyote’s euthanization, and the DNA testing. However, The Eastsider LA included more community-specific details and resident opinions, while CBS and NBC focused on official statements and safety advice.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of managing wildlife in urban areas, particularly the risks posed by coyotes that may become bold due to human interaction or feeding. It underscores the importance of public safety measures and the role of wildlife agencies in addressing such incidents. The case also raises questions about the effectiveness of current wildlife management strategies and the need for community education on coexisting with urban wildlife.

What to watch

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife will analyze DNA samples from the child and the euthanized coyote to determine if the animal was the one involved in the incident. CDFW is expected to provide updates on the results of the DNA analysis and may issue further guidance on wildlife safety in urban areas. Community discussions about wildlife management and the risks of feeding coyotes are likely to continue, potentially leading to increased enforcement of wildlife feeding prohibitions.