Coyote savages 6-year-old child during softball match in Southern California
In the quiet suburban town of Carson, California, a rare and harrowing incident has shaken the community. Six-year-old Enoch Palomar was brutally attacked by a coyote at Del Amo Park during his sister's softball game in August 2025. The incident left Enoch with serious injuries, requiring 20 stitches and several rabies shots.
Enoch's mother, Melissa Palomar, rushed to help her son when she heard him screaming. The coyote had attacked Enoch, biting the back of his head and both of his legs. Thankfully, the coyote ran off after the attack.
Coyote sightings are common in California, but attacks on people, especially children, are rare, according to wildlife officials. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) is now investigating the incident, collecting clothing evidence for DNA testing to try to locate the coyote.
Carson Mayor Lula Davis-Holmes expressed deep sadness over the incident. The City of Carson remains committed to educating the community and maintaining safe recreational spaces for families. The public is urged to remain vigilant, avoid leaving food or trash that may attract wildlife, and report any coyote encounters.
As part of their efforts, the city has implemented several prevention measures. These include posting signage in all parks warning about coyote activity and instructions on how to report sightings. Residents are also encouraged to keep small children and pets close at all times and make loud noises to scare coyotes away if they are encountered.
The CDFW recommends keeping a safe distance from coyotes and allowing them to leave the area on their own. If contacted or attacked by a coyote, residents are advised to fight back immediately and call Animal Control or 911 afterward.
Enoch, now recovering from his ordeal, spoke with KABC about his hospital experience, expressing dislike for shots and nose things. His story serves as a stark reminder of the importance of public awareness and preparedness for coexisting safely with coyotes in urban settings.
The City of Carson continues to take proactive measures to protect residents from coyotes, including posting signage in all parks and providing instructions on how to report sightings. The city officials acknowledge the presence of coyotes and regard such attacks as isolated incidents rather than frequent occurrences.
In the aftermath of this incident, Melissa Palomar is expressing hope that sharing her son's experience will raise awareness about the dangers of coyotes. The city remains committed to educating the community and ensuring the safety of its residents and visitors.
- Amidst the general news about the rare coyote attack, there's growing emphasis on health-and-wellness, particularly mental-health, as experts recommend trauma-informed strategies for parents and children affected by such incidents in urban settings.
- Despite the unfortunate event in Carson, California, science continues to play a crucial role in crime-and-justice investigations, as DNA testing of clothing evidence could potentially help identify the coyote involved in the attack on six-year-old Enoch Palomar.
