Horrified Mother Fights Back as River Otter Attacks and Drags Child Underwater in Washington Marina

A nightmare unfolded for a mother at a Washington marina when her child was suddenly attacked and dragged into the water by a river otter. The horrible incident which occurred on September 12^th was witnessed by many unable to do much as the animal dragged the child underwater. It was quick-thinking and courage by the mother that finally freed the child from the clutches of the little beast.

The Surprise Attack

The unfortunate attack occurred at the Bremerton Marina in Kitsap County, Washington early in the morning, around 9:30 a.m. The child and mother who remain unidentified were strolling along the dock when out of the blue, the river otter attacked the child who was then dragged underwater by the animal.

Mother’s Quick Response

As soon as the otter resurfaced with the child, the mother jumped in to the water and tried saving her child. Although she managed to pull her infant to safety, the otter was relentless and fought back scratching and biting both. The otter bit the child on the arm as the mom tried wrenching the child away. She was successful, but then the animal attacked the mother too, scratching and biting her in several places.

The Otter Gives Chase

The mother managed to escape with her child with the otter in hot pursuit hell bent on exacting revenge. The vicious otter chased them all the way to the dock, but presumably tired out and finally gave up the chase.

According to the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife, both mother and child were taken to the Silverdale hospital where they were treated for their injuries. Fortunately, due to the swift action of the mother, the injuries were not life-threatening.

Otter’s Unusual Behavior

Although river otters, though common in Washington, rarely attack humans, the WDFW has reported six river otter attacks in Washington in the past decade.  Wildlife experts noted that this behavior is unusual, as otters tend to avoid people. However, otters can be territorial, unpredictable, and aggressive if they feel threatened. The otter was eventually caught and euthanized after which it was tested for infections and rabies.