Police warn of rabies threat

Amherst Bee,   September 24, 2008 / Front Page

    The Amherst Police are alerting the public to a possible rabies threat in Amherst State Park.

    A fox bit two females in the area around the park. On Tuesday, Sept. 16, around 2 p.m., a woman was in the gazebo near Reist Street when a fox ran at her and bit her on the shin. Later, around 7 p.m., a second woman was bitten when a fox jumped on her lap while she was sitting near the park entrance at 400 Mill St.

    The Amherst Police stationed officers in and around the state park on Sept. 17 to respond to sightings called in by residents. At approximately 1:35 p.m., officers responded to a call from a citizen. The fox was located on a porch on Mill Street and was dispatched in a rear yard.

    This type of activity usually means the animal is sick with rabies or some other disease. The department is requesting people who regularly use the park for any activity, including walking their dog or fishing, to be aware of any wild animal that is acting strangely.

    Children should be reminded not to touch any wild animal. If anyone or their pet is bitten by any wild animal, they are asked to dial 9-1-1 immediately. The police will then notify the Erie County Health Department.