Arizona Mom Fends Off Coyote Attack During Family Kite Day

Mom fights off attacking coyote during family kite day in Surprise, Arizona. Learn how she protected her daughter.

September 10, 2026 One Min Read

POLICY WIRE — Surprise, Arizona — A mother in Surprise, Arizona, faced a terrifying encounter with a coyote while flying a kite with her young daughter on Sunday afternoon.

Brittany Cardinal and her 4-year-old daughter were outside in the town, located 30 miles northwest of Phoenix, when they came face-to-face with a wild coyote. The animal began nipping at the child, prompting an immediate response from the mother.

📄 POLICY WIRE WHITEPAPER PUBLISHED: PAKISTAN’S NATIONAL SECURITY POLICY PRIORITIES

👉 READ BY CLICKING HERE

Cardinal described the moment as chaotic, saying she didn’t hesitate to act. She used her flip-flop to try to scare the animal, but it continued its attack, biting her face and causing deep lacerations and puncture wounds. Despite the trauma, she said she didn’t feel pain at the time, only the pressure of the attack. Arizona Game and Fish officials have since removed several coyotes from the area for rabies testing, though no results are available yet.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)

Author

Editorial Desk

Policy Wire is your go-to editorial hub for insightful perspectives and informed analysis on pressing policy issues, both regionally and globally. Over the years, Policy Wire has collaborated with leading international news agencies—including AFP, AP, Reuters, and others—to provide fact-based reporting and nuanced commentary. With a commitment to clarity and credibility, we aim to bridge the gap between complex policy debates and public understanding, ensuring that our readers stay informed on the issues shaping the world today.