Canine attacks, injures teen

By: Richelle Bailey | McDowell News
Published: April 27, 2009

A Buncombe County teen told local authorities he was attacked by a coyote in the woods off Mill Creek Road Sunday. Animal Control officers say he suffered extensive injuries from some sort of canine, but it's unlikely it was a coyote.
Simon Joseph Sexton, 17, and a friend were scouting for places to turkey hunt around 5 p.m. They had walked two-tenths of a mile into the woods close to the first pull-off on the left coming from Ridgecrest, according to McDowell County Animal Control Sgt. Brian Walker.
Sexton got ahead of his friend and out of sight. A canine jumped toward the teen and went for Sexton's throat and then his groin area, Walker stated. Sexton's friend heard the commotion and came running, which, in turn, scared the animal off.
"The victim said it was a big coyote, about a hundred pounds. His friend said it looked like a German shepherd mix," said the sergeant.
Monday, Walker, Animal Control Cpl. Frank Holder and Sexton's father, Rodney, went back to the area of Mill Creek where the attack occurred to search for any signs of the animal.
"We found the tracks of a canine, but this animal would only weigh about 50 pounds," Walker stated. "Generally, a coyote that weighs 35 to 40 pounds is considered a big coyote. Based on the tracks we found, we think the animal might have been a hybrid or a domesticated dog that someone turned loose that is now feral. … More than likely, it was probably a female that had pups nearby and felt threatened because they usually don't want to be around people."
The sergeant said that Sexton's friend carried the 17-year-old out of the woods. He was taken to an Asheville hospital, where his wounds were stitched and he was started on rabies vaccines and was released.
Walker advised anyone walking in the woods to be aware of their surroundings and carry a stick.
"It might not protect you against everything, but it's better than nothing," he stated. "Also, go with someone if possible. If you're going by yourself, let someone know when you will be out so if you're not back on time they can call for help."

Canine attacks, injures teen

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