There have been several reports of coyote attacks in Oromocto recently. (Canadian Press)

A coyote was shot dead in a densely populated area of Oromocto, N.B., Saturday morning.

Residents in the Dawson Drive area heard the coyote attacking a deer between two houses. After failed attempts to chase the coyote away, several people called 911 at about 8:30 a.m.

Cindy Abbott, spokeswoman for the town, said officers from the fire department, RCMP and the Department of Natural Resources responded.

"There was a coyote that hunted a deer and was located between two residences. The individuals in the neighborhood attempted to shoo the coyote away, but he seemed very familiar and very complacent and wasn't moving," she said.

Abbott said officials lured the coyote away from the homes and killed it. There have been warnings in the area in recent months about coyotes.

"Sightings and attacks on small animals has been a persistent safety concern for officials in Oromocto," Abbott said.

She also issued some safety advice:

• Never approach or touch a coyote
• Always give it an escape route
• Back away and remain calm
• Do not turn your back on, or run from, a coyote
• If the coyote advances, respond aggressively by waving your arms, shouting, throwing rocks or sticks, and maintaining eye contact
• Carry a flashlight and a loud alarm or whistle to scare off coyotes
• Do not let dogs chase coyotes

Oromocto engaged the services of a nuisance wildlife control officer last month to assist with the problem.

"While emergency officials were able to eliminate one coyote today, citizens are reminded that coyotes often do not travel on their own," Abbott added.