Full Breakdown
Raccoon Falls Through Ceiling at Wisconsin Restaurant, Bites Guest
12/22/2025, 9:58:09 PM
Incident Overview
On December 14, 2025, a raccoon fell through the ceiling of Ristorante Brissago, an upscale restaurant located within the Grand Geneva Resort in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. The incident occurred around 7:30 p.m. when the raccoon landed on a dining room table, prompting a guest to attempt to capture it. This effort resulted in the guest being bitten. The Walworth County Sheriff's Office responded to a 911 call regarding the situation.
Response and Containment
Upon arrival, deputies found the raccoon barricaded in a corner of a back dining room. They initially considered using a Taser to subdue the animal but ultimately decided against it. Instead, they contained the raccoon using a trash can until wildlife control could arrive. Matt Snorek, owner of Guaranteed Gone Wildlife Control, was called to the scene and utilized a catch pole and cage to safely trap the raccoon. Snorek described the raccoon as large and aggressive, stating it exhibited significant energy and resistance during the capture.
Health and Safety Measures
Due to the bite incident, the raccoon was euthanized and subsequently tested for rabies. The results confirmed that the animal was negative for the disease. However, authorities have not disclosed the condition of the guest who was bitten or whether they received medical treatment.
Official Statements
Skip Harless, managing director of the Grand Geneva Resort, confirmed the occurrence of the incident, emphasizing that the safety and well-being of guests is a top priority. He stated, "Animal Control was contacted, and the animal was removed."
Criticism & Opposition
While the incident was unusual, it highlights the potential risks associated with wildlife encounters in urban settings, particularly during harsh winter conditions. Experts like Snorek noted that such occurrences are not uncommon in the Midwest when temperatures drop, as wildlife may seek shelter in buildings.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
There is a lack of information regarding the extent of injuries sustained by the guest who was bitten. Additionally, while some reports mention that the raccoon landed on a dining room table, others specify it fell directly into the dining area without detailing the exact location.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It was quite a large raccoon. So he was on it for the 25 minutes I was on the way there as this thing was brawling, scratching, hissing,” — Matt Snorek, Owner of Guaranteed Gone Wildlife Control
- “This would be unusual.” — Lt. Pete Kruger, Walworth County Sheriff's Office
- “As always, the safety and well-being of our guests is our priority," the statement said.” — Skip Harless, Managing Director of Grand Geneva Resort
This incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of wildlife interactions and the importance of prompt response measures in ensuring guest safety.
