In alexandria, the calm of Old Town streets was interrupted this week when a raccoon charged at two people and bit them, triggering a public health warning about possible rabies and renewed calls to avoid wildlife—even when it appears harmless.
What happened in Alexandria’s Old Town?
Virginia health two people were attacked by a raccoon in Old Town Alexandria. The Alexandria Health Department said the raccoon charged at two people on Tuesday and bit them. the individuals were bitten near North Henry Street, North Patrick Street, and Cameron Street.
It remains unclear whether the bites involved the same animal. Officials emphasized that the aggressive behavior itself raises concern, and rabies is being treated as a real possibility while the situation is assessed.
Why are health officials warning about possible rabies?
After the attacks, officials warned about possible rabies when a dead raccoon was found in the same area. No living raccoon has been captured, but they believe the dead raccoon could be the culprit. The animal is being sent for rabies testing.
Until testing clarifies the risk, residents are being urged to stay alert and keep distance from wildlife. “Raccoons, foxes, other animals — they can carry rabies, and so we want people to remember that, ” said Eve Elliott, a spokesperson for the Alexandria Department of Health.
How are neighbors reacting—and what are residents being told to do?
In Old Town, the warning is filtering quickly into everyday routines, especially for people walking around the neighborhood. Neighbors said they are more alert when moving through the area.
“If I see it, I’m running the other direction. They’re small but mighty, ” said Jalen Byrd.
Another resident, Geoff Chester, described why the animal’s presence did not feel far-fetched in the area: “It wouldn’t surprise me if they’re out here. There’s a lot of trash and good things to eat here, ” he said.
Officials are urging residents to avoid wildlife, even if animals look “cute and cuddly. ” They are also telling residents to keep pets close and to seek medical care immediately if they or their animals are bitten.
For alexandria residents, the warning is both immediate and practical: remain cautious around animals in the neighborhood, and treat any bite as urgent until health authorities can confirm more through testing.
What happens next?
The next development hinges on rabies testing of the dead raccoon found in the area. Officials have not captured a live raccoon and have not confirmed whether the dead animal is the one involved in the attacks.
For now, health guidance remains focused on vigilance and prevention: avoiding wildlife encounters, keeping pets close, and seeking medical care immediately after any bite. The incident has left Old Town residents moving through familiar corners with a sharper awareness—an everyday walk in Alexandria now carrying the question of what else may be nearby.
