Raccoons Attack Woman in South Arlington: Reports

ARLINGTON, VA — Authorities are warning people to be on the lookout for aggressive raccoons that have attacked two women near Shirlington, according to various media reports.

The latest attack happened in the 4800 block of 28th Street on Sunday. The raccoons jumped on and mauled one woman as she took out the trash, sending her to the hospital, according to the reports.

In June, another woman was attacked while on her patio, sending her to the hospital with injuries to her arm and legs.

Unfortunately, the raccoons apparently escaped, so they couldn't be tested to see if they have rabies.

Animal experts advise people to keep their distance with raccoons, even when they appear friendly and docile. A raccoon that approaches a human aggressively or does not seem fearful of humans may have rabies.

Image via U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service