Raccoon Attacks Close Merritt Island Kiwanis Island Park

It is not known what prompted the altercations between the raccoons and park patrons, said Parks and Recreation Director Jack Masson.

Masson said he will make an assessment Monday morning on when to reopen the park.

“We will err on the safe side,” Masson said Sunday.

Masson said the first altercation was reported Wednesday by a woman who was eating lunch under a park pavilion.  She was transported for medical treatment, but the extent of her injuries was unknown.  Then, on Friday, a mother and child were on the playground when the child was reportedly bitten by a raccoon.  The county Health Department was notified, which is procedure anytime a bite is reported, Masson said.

Kiwanis Island Park is located on State Road 520 on Merritt Island, Florida.