Residents of Floral Park, Queens, reported a coyote sighting in their backyards on Wednesday, March 8th, prompting a response from the 105th Precinct. This incident follows a concerning series of coyote attacks in New Jersey on Friday afternoon.

Authorities in Essex County reported that a man, a 13-year-old girl, and a Maltese Shih Tzu were attacked by a coyote near a dog park in the Maplewood section of South Mountain Reservation. The attacks occurred around 3 p.m., according to PIX 11. The conditions of the man and teenager are currently unknown. The injured dog is receiving emergency veterinary care.

The caption accompanying the image reads: "A coyote reacts after eating a gopher at the Foothills Nature Preserve in Palo Alto, Calif., on Thursday, May 30, 2023. (Jane Tyska/Digital First Media/The Mercury News)"

Following these attacks, Essex County Executive Joseph DiVincenzo announced the closure of the dog park and Crest Drive, urging caution for anyone visiting the South Mountain Reservation. He stated, "An aggressive coyote has been sighted in Essex County South Mountain Reservation. With an abundance of caution, we are closing Crest Drive and the South Mountain Dog Park until tomorrow. We ask that anyone visiting the reservation be extremely cautious."

Reports also indicate a third victim, a woman, who may have been bitten by the same coyote. Her condition remains unknown. Authorities suspect the coyote may be rabid, given its solitary behavior.