A NYC cop shot a charging raccoon on Rockaway Beach; no one hurt, officer on modified duty.

A New York City police officer shot and killed a raccoon that charged at people on Rockaway Beach boardwalk Thursday morning, Jan. 26, 2026, following a 911 call about a dangerous animal. Officers were attempting to guide the raccoon away when it lunged, prompting the officer to fire. No bystanders were injured. The officer has been placed on modified duty as the department’s Force Investigation Division reviews the incident, which is standard procedure. The officer’s name has not been released, and it remains unclear if the raccoon will be tested for rabies.