The rare attack occurred on Thursday morning at a marina in Bremerton, located on the Puget Sound across from Seattle, according to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW).

According to officials, the child was pulled off the dock by the otter and dragged briefly underwater during the harrowing incident. The child managed to resurface after a few moments but sustained scratches and bites to the head, face, and legs. The mother was also bitten in the arm while trying to rescue her child from the aggressive otter.

Despite the mother's swift actions, the otter continued to pursue them as they left the dock. The child was later treated at a local hospital for minor injuries. The age of the child has not been disclosed at this time.

"We are grateful that the victim only sustained minor injuries, thanks to the mother's quick actions and the child's resiliency," stated WDFW Sgt. Ken Balazs. "We would also like to thank the Port of Bremerton for their prompt coordination and communication with their marina tenants."

Following the incident, state wildlife officials reached out to the U.S. Department of Agriculture Wildlife Services to remove the river otters from the Bremerton Marina. One river otter was successfully trapped at the scene and has been sent to a laboratory for further evaluation, including testing for rabies.

River otters are commonly found in Washington state, inhabiting freshwater, brackish, and saltwater habitats. According to WDFW, there have been six documented human-river otter incidents in Washington over the past decade. Although encounters with river otters are rare, the department advises caution, reminding the public that they can be territorial and unpredictable, like any wildlife.

The identities of the mother and child involved in the attack have not been disclosed to the public. Authorities are urging caution for those visiting the marina and are taking necessary measures to ensure the safety of the area.

As investigations continue, wildlife officials are working diligently to address this unusual incident and mitigate any potential risks associated with river otter encounters.