Raccoon Attack Prompts Warning From Police In Bergen County

RIDGEWOOD, NJ — A raccoon attack in Ridgewood over the weekend prompted a warning from police.

"Today the Ridgewood Police received a report that on [Saturday] at approximately 7 p.m., a raccoon attack occurred in the area of Maple Field and the Community Garden," police said in a message.

They said that on Sunday, around 2:15 p.m., they got a separate report about a sick-looking raccoon crossing Meadowbrook Avenue.

"Out of an abundance of caution, residents are encouraged to remain vigilant in this area and throughout the Village. Animal Control has been notified and is actively responding to the situation," police said.

Aggressive animals may have rabies, a disease that, when passed humans other animals, is fatal unless they are treated quickly.

Police encouraged these precautions:

• Do not approach, feed, or attempt to handle any wild animals.

• Keep children under close supervision when outdoors.• Keep pets leashed and under control while outside.

• Avoid any wildlife that appears aggressive, unusually tame, disoriented, injured, or sick.

• Report sightings of aggressive or abnormal animal behavior to the Ridgewood Police Department

• If you are bitten or scratched by a wild animal, seek medical attention immediately and notify the police department.

Police said the town will provide more information if necessary.

"We appreciate the public's cooperation and encourage residents to exercise caution while Animal Control investigates the situation," police said.

Last month, Mahwah residents received a similar warning after a beaver attacked a boy. It was caught, euthanized, and determined to have rabies, officials said.

Early this month, a rabid raccoon was captured in Byram Township, in Sussex County.