Otter Attack: Marathon Spectator Bitten, Needs Rabies Shots

A woman in Cary, North Carolina, has shared her startling encounter with a wild otter while spectating at the Tobacco Road Marathon.

Erin Hogston was supporting friends when an otter emerged from bushes and attacked her, inflicting bites and scratches that required immediate medical attention, including rabies vaccinations.

She captured footage of the animal and described the painful ordeal, noting the high cost of medical care. Hogston recounted the disbelief of medical staff and friends upon hearing about the rare animal assault.

Wildlife officials confirmed that otter attacks on humans are exceptionally uncommon, with only a handful documented globally over many decades and a single prior instance in North Carolina. Experts emphasize that otters typically do not exhibit aggressive behavior toward people, making this event highly unusual.

Hogston, recovering from her injuries, advised others to remain aware of their surroundings, even in familiar settings, as unexpected wildlife encounters can occur.