CAYCE, S.C. — A Cayce park has been closed after coyotes--including one that had rabies--were found in the city.
The city released a statement on Facebook Friday saying coyotes have been sighted around Cayce City Hall. Police say in one case, a group of sportsman noticed that one of the animals was "ill-tempered," and a Cayce offier shot and killed the coyote. Later testing showed it had rabies.
The city says out of an abundance of caution, Granby Gardens Park will remain closed until further notice
The city says residents should call the Cayce Public Safety at 803-794-0456 if they see a coyote in the city. The Cayce Department Public Safety is working in concert with other agencies to address the problem and we will post a notice when the park is reopened.
This isn't the first coyote sighting in a Midlands town recently. Back in March, a woman said she saw a coyote in the woods near Irmo Community park.
The SC Department of Natural Resources says if you encounter a coyote, back away from it, but don’t turn and run because that could cause a chase response from the coyote.
Next, if you have a pet with you of any size, hold it close or pick it up and continue backing away.
Whatever you do, do not approach the animal.