San Diego, California, November 28, 2025
In a troubling incident, a coyote attacked two children near the Westfield UTC shopping mall in University City, San Diego. A 3-year-old girl was injured, sustaining bites to her arm and hip, and received treatment at Rady Children’s Hospital. The second child’s condition remains undisclosed. The San Diego Humane Society and California Department of Fish and Wildlife are investigating the incident as coyote sightings rise in urban areas. Local residents are advised on safety measures to avoid coyote encounters amidst growing concerns.
San Diego, California: Coyote Attacks Two Children Near Westfield UTC Mall
San Diego, California – On Tuesday, November 25, 2025, a coyote attacked two children near the Westfield UTC shopping mall in University City, San Diego. The incident occurred around 9 p.m. at 4500 La Jolla Village Drive, in the mall’s parking lot.
Details of the Attack
A 3-year-old girl sustained bite wounds on her arm and hip and was transported to Rady Children’s Hospital for treatment. The condition of the second child, also injured in the attack, has not been disclosed.
Response and Investigation
The San Diego Humane Society’s law enforcement division responded to the scene but was unable to locate the coyote. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) is actively investigating the incident, collecting DNA samples for analysis. They are collaborating with the U.S. Department of Agriculture Wildlife Services to locate and capture the coyote.
Public Safety Measures
Residents are advised to “haze” coyotes when encountered to deter aggressive behavior. Effective hazing includes standing tall, waving arms, yelling, clapping, stomping, or using tools like noisemakers or water spray. It is important to continue these actions until the coyote leaves the area.
Background on Urban Coyotes
San Diego County has seen a rise in urban coyote sightings, particularly in areas like University City. Coyotes are highly adaptable and have learned to thrive in urban and suburban environments due to habitat loss, availability of food sources, and lack of natural predators.
Historical Context
While coyote attacks on humans are uncommon, they have occurred in California. For instance, in 1981, a 3-year-old girl was fatally attacked by a coyote in Glendale, California.
Recommendations for Residents
To prevent coyote encounters, residents should secure food sources, keep small pets indoors, and avoid leaving pet food outside. If a coyote is spotted, do not feed it and contact local authorities.
Contact Information
Anyone with information about the coyote involved in this incident is urged to contact the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. For emergencies, call 911.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Westfield UTC shopping mall parking lot, University City, San Diego |
| Date and Time | November 25, 2025, around 9 p.m. |
| Victims | Two children; a 3-year-old girl sustained bite wounds on her arm and hip |
| Response | San Diego Humane Society and CDFW investigated; coyote not located |
| Public Advisory | Residents advised to “haze” coyotes to deter aggressive behavior |
| Historical Context | San Diego County has seen a rise in urban coyote sightings |
What happened during the coyote attack near Westfield UTC Mall?
On November 25, 2025, a coyote attacked two children near the Westfield UTC shopping mall in University City, San Diego. A 3-year-old girl sustained bite wounds on her arm and hip and was transported to Rady Children’s Hospital for treatment. The condition of the second child, also injured in the attack, has not been disclosed.
What should residents do if they encounter a coyote?
Residents are advised to “haze” coyotes when encountered to deter aggressive behavior. Effective hazing includes standing tall, waving arms, yelling, clapping, stomping, or using tools like noisemakers or water spray. It’s important to continue these actions until the coyote leaves the area.
How can residents prevent coyote encounters?
To prevent coyote encounters, residents should secure food sources, keep small pets indoors, and avoid leaving pet food outside. If a coyote is spotted, do not feed it and contact local authorities.
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