Rabid Beaver Attacks 8-Year-Old Boy at New Jersey Lake, Tests Positive

A rabid beaver charged out of a New Jersey lake and attacked an 8-year-old boy during a fishing outing Sunday, an incident captured on video.

The encounter occurred at Lake Henry in Mahwah. Police said the animal suddenly emerged from the water and lunged at the child as he stood near the shoreline.

Video footage shows the boy scrambling up the bank to escape as the beaver chased him and bit his thigh.

Other children rushed to help. One grabbed the animal and threw it back into the lake.

A small dog also appeared in the video, trying to fend off the aggressive beaver as it moved erratically along the water's edge.

Authorities took the boy to Good Samaritan Hospital in Suffern, New York, for treatment.

Officials later confirmed the beaver tested positive for rabies.

The Mahwah Township Health Department noted the animal had contact with multiple people over the weekend. It urged anyone who may have been exposed to seek immediate medical evaluation.

"Individuals who were bitten are currently receiving treatment," the department said. It also called on residents to report any contact with the animal.

Health officials warned that rabies can be carried by any warm-blooded animal and advised the public to avoid wildlife.

The incident remains under investigation.