13-Year-Old Maryland Boy Survives Rabid Beaver Attack After Three Surgeries

A 13-year-old Maryland boy is recovering after surviving a rare and violent encounter with a rabid beaver that left him with severe injuries and nerve damage.

Dominick Cebula was swimming at Cunningham Falls State Park in Frederick County, Maryland, on July 26, 2026, when he was attacked by a beaver.

The animal bit Dominick on his chest and hands, causing serious wounds that included nerve damage. He was airlifted to Johns Hopkins Hospital for emergency medical treatment.

The beaver was later captured and euthanized. Testing subsequently confirmed that the animal had rabies, a serious viral disease that can be transmitted through the bite of an infected animal.

Dominick’s injuries required extensive medical care. According to information released on September 15, he underwent three surgeries to treat the wounds and repair damage to his nerves.

Despite the severity of the attack and the difficult recovery that followed, Dominick has made significant progress.

He has recovered enough to begin the new school year and celebrate his birthday, marking an encouraging milestone after an experience that could have had far more devastating consequences.

His recovery serves as a reminder of the dangers of unexpected encounters with wildlife, particularly when an animal behaves unusually or aggressively.

For Dominick and his family, however, the focus now is on moving forward—returning to school, celebrating another year of life and continuing his recovery after a frightening summer encounter.

Source: NY Post