Watch CBS News

Police Officer In Central Florida Kills Rabid Otter Following Several Attacks

Follow CBSMIAMI.COM: Facebook | Twitter

MIAMI (CBSMiami/AP) -- Authorities say a Maitland police officer fatally shot a rabid otter several days after people reported attacks.

The Orlando Sentinel reports that the Maitland police officer put the sick animal down last week near Lake Maitland.

Police say a visitor at a nearby park reported being attacked Jan. 7, followed by two more attacks the next day. Several days later, police responded to a home where someone reported a sick otter in their backyard. Officers say the animal appeared to be seizing and shaking.

A report says the officer shot the otter twice, killing it. Orange County Animal Services confirmed the otter had rabies Saturday. Officials say the victims are undergoing post-exposure vaccinations.

Rabies is a disease of the nervous system and can be fatal to warm-blooded animals and people.

(© Copyright 2019 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.