A rabid groundhog attacked two people outside a Hillsborough, New Jersey, bar this Wednesday, prompting health officials to euthanize the animal.
At a Glance
- The groundhog bit two out-of-town patrons outside The Landing gastropub.
- Victims were treated at a local hospital and are currently receiving care.
- The Hillsborough Health Department confirmed the animal tested positive for rabies.
- Rabies has been present in local wildlife since at least 1989.
- Officials are urging pet owners to ensure rabies vaccinations are current and to report unusual wild‑animal behavior.
A Wild Morning
The chaos began outside The Landing gastropub on Amwell Road, where a groundhog suddenly lunged at two patrons, biting both in rapid succession. According to the Hillsborough Health Department, the animal was captured, tested positive for rabies, and was euthanized.
The victims—both from outside the township—received treatment at a nearby hospital and are undergoing post-exposure prophylaxis to prevent the virus from spreading. Rabies remains a lethal disease if untreated, attacking the central nervous system and often resulting in death once symptoms appear.
Watch a report: Rabid groundhog bites two in New Jersey.
Urgent Public Safety Measures
Local authorities have launched a renewed push for pet owners to confirm all rabies vaccinations are current. Officials also urged residents to report any unusual animal behavior, such as daytime activity in nocturnal species or unprovoked aggression.
Rabies has long circulated in New Jersey’s wildlife, especially among raccoons, foxes, skunks, and groundhogs. Hillsborough and nearby townships are expanding trap-neuter-vaccinate-release programs for feral cats and other at-risk populations.
Know the Symptoms
Rabies symptoms may include fever, confusion, muscle spasms, and agitation—often followed by death if not quickly treated. Experts recommend washing any bites thoroughly with soap and water, then seeking immediate medical help. The New York Post notes that rabies fatalities remain rare but are nearly always preventable with prompt action.
In light of this violent encounter, Hillsborough residents are reminded: vigilance is survival.
