A serious wildlife incident in Mississauga has left a woman in hospital with life-threatening injuries. Peel Regional Police responded to reports from Lewis Bradley Park early Saturday morning and discovered a woman with severe wounds to her lower body. Paramedics administered life-saving treatment at the scene before transporting her to hospital, where she remains in critical condition. Police say the woman had been reported missing earlier in the morning and may have been wandering through the park overnight. While detectives have ruled out foul play, the investigation is active and ongoing.
This article explains what is known so far, outlines the response from emergency services, and provides practical guidance for residents and park users on how to reduce risk during wildlife encounters in urban green spaces.
What Happened
Shortly after 6:30 a.m., officers were dispatched to Lewis Bradley Park, an established public space in a residential area of Mississauga. On arrival, officers searched the grounds and located the injured woman. Initial assessments indicated significant trauma to the lower body consistent with an animal attack. The timing of the incident suggests that the woman may have been in the park during low light conditions, which can increase the chance of surprise encounters with wildlife.
Paramedics performed critical interventions on scene. These measures are standard when rapid stabilization is required before transport and can include hemorrhage control, airway support, and shock management. The woman was then taken to hospital, where her condition remains critical.
Short Summary
Details |
Information |
|---|---|
Incident |
Coyote attack resulting in life-threatening injuries to a woman |
Location |
Lewis Bradley Park, near Embassy Avenue and Inverhouse Drive, Mississauga |
Time of Call |
Shortly after 6:30 a.m. on Saturday |
Victim Status |
Hospitalized in critical condition with severe lower-body injuries |
First Response |
Paramedics performed life-saving measures on scene before transport |
Police Notes |
Woman had been reported missing earlier; investigators believe she may have been wandering overnight |
Foul Play |
Police have ruled out foul play; investigation continues |
Public Advisory |
Avoid approaching wildlife, report sightings, follow park safety guidance |
Official Site Link |
Police Statements and Current Status
Police have stated that there is no indication of foul play. The working theory is that the woman was alone in the park and encountered a coyote. Officers are continuing to canvass the area, review any available video from nearby homes or municipal cameras, and speak with potential witnesses who may have been out walking early that morning. Investigators will also look at recent wildlife sighting reports in and around the park to establish patterns of movement.
The public should expect an increased police and animal services presence in the area while the investigation continues. This may include ground searches, signage advising caution, and coordination with municipal wildlife officers to monitor and respond to coyote activity.
About Lewis Bradley Park and Urban Wildlife
Lewis Bradley Park sits within a network of residential streets, treed corridors, and green spaces that can attract wildlife. Coyotes are highly adaptable and can thrive in suburban environments that provide food and cover. Typical attractants include unsecured garbage, compost, pet food left outdoors, fallen fruit, and small animals drawn to bird feeders. Dawn and dusk are common active periods for coyotes, although they can be seen at any time, especially when they have become accustomed to human presence.
Most urban sightings involve coyotes moving through an area without incident. Aggression toward people is uncommon but can occur, particularly if animals have been fed by humans, have learned to associate people with food, or feel cornered. Dog-on-lead conflicts or protective behavior around pups can also increase risk.
Safety Tips for Residents and Park Users
Use the following guidance to lower risk and reduce negative encounters:
- Be alert during low light hours
If walking before sunrise or after sunset, carry a flashlight and stay on open, well-traveled paths. - Keep pets close
Dogs should be on a short, non-retractable leash. Avoid off-leash areas if coyotes have been reported. Do not allow cats to roam at night. - Do not feed wildlife
Feeding habituates coyotes to people and increases the chance of bold behavior. Secure garbage, compost, and pet food. Clean up fallen fruit and remove food sources that attract rodents. - Make yourself look larger if approached
Stand tall, maintain eye contact, raise your arms, speak firmly, and slowly back away while giving the animal an exit route. Do not run. - Travel in pairs or groups where possible
Group presence can deter wildlife from approaching. - Report sightings
Non-emergency sightings and nuisance behavior should be reported to local animal services. Call emergency services if a coyote displays aggressive behavior or if a person is in danger.
What Authorities May Do Next
Following an attack, authorities commonly take several steps to protect public safety and collect information:
- Area assessment to identify attractants and high-risk zones within and around the park.
- Public notices and signage advising visitors of recent activity, recommended routes, and temporary restrictions if necessary.
- Targeted patrols by police and animal services during peak activity times.
- Community outreach that explains how to reduce attractants on private property and how to respond to encounters.
- Wildlife management measures that may include tracking, deterrence, and, in rare cases, removal if an animal poses an ongoing threat.
These actions are designed to balance public safety with responsible urban wildlife management.
How the Community Can Help
Residents play a key role in preventing future incidents:
- Eliminate food sources by securing bins and storage areas.
- Leash dogs at all times in parks where wildlife has been seen.
- Share accurate information with neighbors and avoid circulating unverified claims that may hinder investigations.
- Report sightings promptly so authorities can map activity and deploy resources where needed.
When to Seek Medical Help After an Encounter
If you experience any physical contact with a coyote or suffer an injury, seek medical attention immediately. Even minor wounds should be evaluated by a healthcare professional due to infection risk. Document the time, location, and details of the encounter to assist both medical providers and investigators.
Frequently Asked Questions
1) Is Lewis Bradley Park closed after the incident
Park access decisions are made by local authorities based on safety assessments. Visitors should follow posted signage and any temporary guidance issued by police or the municipality.
2) What should I do if I see a coyote in the park
Keep your distance, do not approach or feed it, keep pets close on a short leash, and calmly leave the area while facing the animal. Report the sighting to local animal services.
3) Are coyote attacks common in urban areas
Attacks are rare, but encounters are not unusual in cities with extensive green space. Risk increases when coyotes are habituated to human food or when people or pets approach too closely.
4) How can homeowners reduce coyote activity near their property
Secure garbage and compost, store pet food indoors, clean up fallen fruit, remove outdoor food sources that attract rodents, and fence yards where feasible.
5) Where can I find official updates about this investigation
For confirmed information and advisories, visit the Peel Regional Police website at www.peelpolice.ca. Use emergency services for urgent threats to public safety.
Final Takeaway
A severe coyote attack at Lewis Bradley Park has left a woman in critical condition and prompted a comprehensive police response. While foul play has been ruled out, the ongoing investigation aims to piece together the exact sequence of events and to reduce the risk of further incidents. Residents can help by removing attractants, leashing pets, reporting sightings, and following official guidance. For updates and safety information, refer to the Peel Regional Police website and local municipal advisories.
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