A child was pulled from a dock into the water by an aggressive river otter at the Bremerton Marina in Kitsap County on Thursday morning, September 12, around 9:30 a.m. The child sustained injuries and needed medical attention, according to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW).
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife officers quickly responded to investigate the incident at the marina. Reports indicate the child was quickly rescued from the water and taken to a local hospital for treatment. The details about the nature and severity of the injuries were not included in the initial report.
Violent interactions between humans and river otter are rare but do happen. River otter is usually shy but can become aggressive if they feel threatened, especially when protecting their young. The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is still investigating the incident and watching the area for more signs of aggressive otters. Public safety announcements and wildlife interaction guidelines will follow.
