Toronto police officer injured after being bitten by raccoon

A Toronto police officer suffered serious injuries to his hands and wrists after being bitten by a raccoon on Monday.

Police said the male officer was responding to an animal distress call in the area of Sherbourne and Howard around 12:18 p.m. when we was bitten.

A local store owner reported the raccoon was acting strangely and may be blind, police said.

Get breaking National news

Get breaking Canada news delivered to your inbox as it happens so you won't miss a trending story.

Sign up for breaking National newsletter Get Started

By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

The officer was taken to hospital where he will likely require stitches.

Police said the raccoon was captured, will be tested for rabies and euthanized.