Coyote connected to attacks in Southern California euthanized

WARNING: The video attached to the article may be disturbing. Viewer discretion is advised.

CARSON, Calif. (NBC, KYMA) - A coyote linked to at least two attacks in Southern California has been captured and euthanized.

Last week, a coyote attacked a four-year-old boy outside his home in Carson, California.

Fish and Wildlife officials say the same coyote is responsible for attacking another child in February, confirmed with DNA tests.

Security camera video captures the terrifying moment the coyote suddenly appears, knocking the four-year-old to the ground. His mother quickly rushes in and pulls her son to safety.

He suffered several superficial puncture wounds, but is doing okay, according to his mother.

The Department of Fish and Wildlife urges the public not to leave pet food out and to make sure their trash cans are secured.

They say coyote activity tends to increase this time of the year, during mating season, and again in the fall when young coyotes begin venturing out.