Family fights off aggressive, likely rabid groundhog

A Maryland family said an encounter with an aggressive groundhog Thursday was frightening and something they'll never forget.

Stephanie Heideman told WUSA that her family was chased by a groundhog at her parents' house as they finished lunch outdoors. Everyone made it safely back in the house as the animal lunged at the door and smacked its body against windows in an attempt to gain access.The family said the animal had its mouth open, and its teeth and claws bared.

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Heideman said the unsettling encounter with the groundhog lasted approximately 15 minutes.

Wildlife officials said the groundhog was likely rabid, but hasn't been caught.

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Joy Johnston, Cox Media Group National Content Desk

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