Washington family awarded $350,000 after otter attacks toddler
A Washington family settled a lawsuit for $350,000 against the Port of Bremerton following a rare river otter attack on a toddler. The port settled without admitting fault, while the incident highlights the risks of human-wildlife overlap in developed areas.
Why it matters
The case underscores the legal and safety challenges posed by wildlife in urbanized environments and the responsibilities of public entities in managing such risks.
A Washington family has reached a $350,000 settlement after a rare river otter attack at Bremerton Marina left a toddler injured and the child’s mother bitten during the rescue. The case has now been dismissed, with the Port of Bremerton agreeing to settle without admitting fault, as reported by KOIN 6.What happened at the marina?According to reports from state wildlife officials, the incident happened on September 12, 2024, when a river otter grabbed the toddler and pulled the child off a dock and into the water. The child resurfaced moments later, and when the mother pulled the toddler out, the otter continued attacking and bit her arm.The toddler was treated at a hospital in Silverdale for scratches and bite wounds on the head, face, and legs.
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