Rabid raccoon bites New Jersey resident, prompting search for second animal

A raccoon that emerged from shrubbery outside a Glassboro home on Sunday morning bit the front of a man's right leg and was later confirmed to have rabies, officials said. The victim, Kevin Tucker, told local TV that the animal charged him, causing him to fall backward before the bite occurred.

"I was walking to leave when a raccoon came out of the shrubbery and charged me," Tucker said.

The animal was captured after it chased other nearby residents, and laboratory testing confirmed the presence of the rabies virus. County officials are now searching for a second raccoon that they believe engaged in a fight with the infected animal before it was seized.

Health officials warned residents to avoid contact with wild animals and urged pet owners to ensure vaccinations are current. They also advised anyone bitten or scratched by wildlife to seek immediate medical care and report the incident to animal control or health authorities. Preventive measures suggested include securing garbage, removing outdoor pet food, supervising pets, trimming dense brush near walkways, and giving wildlife ample space to reduce the risk of future encounters.