In a shocking incident at the Bremerton Marina in Kitsap County, Washington, a territorial river otter attacked an unsuspecting child who was taking a stroll with their mother on the dock. The incident occurred on September 12, sending waves of horror through the marina.

According to reports from the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife (WDFW), the child was suddenly grabbed by the river otter and dragged into the water. The quick-thinking mother fought back courageously to rescue her child once they resurfaced. However, the relentless otter bit the child on the arm as they were being lifted out of the water.

The attack did not end there, as the otter continued chasing the mother and child down the dock. It wasn't until they were out of harm's way that the otter finally retreated. The child suffered scratches and bites on their head, face, and legs during the ordeal.

The child, along with their brave mother, received treatment for their injuries at a hospital in Silverdale. The WDFW expressed gratitude that the victim's injuries were relatively minor, attributing it to the swift actions of the mother and the child's resilience.

In response to the incident, the U.S. Department of Agriculture Wildlife Services took action and captured the river otter, which was eventually euthanized. To ensure public safety, the otter's remains were sent to the Washington Animal Disease Diagnostic Lab for testing, including for rabies.

This unfortunate incident is not the first of its kind in Washington. The WDFW stated that there have been six documented river otter attacks in the state over the past decade. While encounters with these creatures are rare, they can display territorial behavior and unpredictability.

River otters are a common sight throughout Washington, adding to the importance of remaining cautious and vigilant when in their presence. As this incident serves as a reminder of the potential risks, authorities and wildlife experts urge the public to exercise caution and respect the natural habitats of these animals.

The name of the child and mother involved in the attack have not been disclosed. However, this incident serves as a grim reminder of the need for awareness and precaution when encountering wildlife in their natural environments.