FREEDOM - A couple out walking their dog Friday morning on Flintlock Lane were bitten by a fox which was shot and killed by a deputy who it also attacked.

Carroll County Lt. Michael Santuccio said the couple, who he declined to identify, did seek medical treatment. Deputy Brian King, who killed the fox, also went to the hospital because of his exposure to the animal and out of concern it may be rabid.

The incident happened about 7:40 a.m. Officers talked to the couple and then located the fox who attacked them, forcing King to shoot it, Santuccio said. None of the officers was bitten.

The New Hampshire Public Health Lab will test the fox for rabies, Santuccio said.

State Fish and Game is handling the rabies investigation.