Overview
- Police say the officer responded shortly after 7:45 a.m. to a 911 report of a “vicious animal” near Beach 121st Street and Ocean Promenade in Belle Harbor.
- Officers initially tried to shoo and guide the raccoon away before it allegedly charged a group of people.
- The officer discharged his firearm, striking the animal three times, and the raccoon died at the scene.
- The NYPD reported no human injuries connected to the incident.
- Officials have not confirmed whether the animal will be tested for rabies as the investigation remains ongoing.