Rochester’s “Zombie Raccoon” Mystery Deepens: Six Shots, No Answers
By Lisa Loucks-Christenson, Investigative Reporter, Rochester Sun Times
Updated July 7, 2024
Last summer, a raccoon dubbed the “Zombie Raccoon” made local headlines after a Rochester Police officer shot it six times. The disturbing event raised immediate questions about the nature of the animal’s condition and the reasons behind such forceful action.
I first learned of the shooting through a neighborhood Nextdoor post and quickly sought out official answers. What type of gun was used? Was the raccoon’s brain tested for rabies? Were tissues sent for further disease analysis? To date, no responses have come from the Rochester Police Department despite repeated calls.
The raccoon—measuring approximately 36 to 37 inches—was reportedly foaming at the mouth and exhibiting seizure-like behavior. Such symptoms could indicate rabies, distemper, poisoning, or other illnesses, but without testing, the truth remains unknown.
As a wildlife observer and investigative journalist, I have witnessed many cases of sick raccoons and other wildlife exhibiting distressing symptoms and unusual behavior, often wandering close to human habitation. It is not uncommon for these animals, especially mothers, to actively forage in daylight if struggling to survive.
The concerns are broader than any single raccoon. Over the past two years, I’ve heard chilling screams near my sanctuary—sounds reminiscent of prey caught by predators—occurring regularly and raising alarm about the health and safety of local wildlife families. Many mother raccoons have gone missing, leaving vulnerable babies exposed and desperate.
My investigations also uncovered troubling interactions with local authorities: dismissive responses, refusal to engage in dialogue, even harassment. One officer explicitly told me on camera they would not respond to my calls. Another insisted I turn off my sanctuary’s outdoor lights late at night, hindering my ability to observe and report.
While Fish and Wildlife and the Sheriff’s Office advised letting nature take its course, the suffering and unanswered questions demand action. The raccoon shot six times likely clung to life for its young, making the incident all the more heartbreaking.
The broader ecological impact is unknown—could diseases like rabies, distemper, avian flu, Lyme disease, or poisoning be spreading unchecked through raccoon populations? Are these pathogens crossing into other wildlife or even humans? Proper testing and transparent communication from authorities are critical but missing.
I plan to escalate this investigation with the help of my wildlife forensics course instructor to follow up on disease testing and challenge the official silence.
This story extends beyond a single “zombie raccoon.” It is about accountability, the ethics of wildlife management, and the duty of public officials to protect both animals and the community.
The agencies involved have my contact information. They know where to find me. It’s time they answer.