In a bizarre and surely scary encounter, a man clad as the Dr. Seuss character Cat in the Hat allegedly chased after a teenage girl in Canada on Monday, August 24. In a September 8 news release from the West Kelowna (British Columbia) RCMP (Royal Canadian Mounted Police), it is stated that the girl was not harmed and got home alright. Her name was not made public.
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Per the New York Post, a blurry surveillance camera image depicts a person wearing "a full Cat in the Hat costume...."
Additionally, being clad in the costume is not in itself a crime, said the release. However, chasing someone to deliberately scare them can be considered criminal harassment.
This Incident "Is Extremely Concerning"
Authorities are taking this possible joke or prank very seriously. Clearly, the girl was badly frightened, as anyone would be. Despite the fanciful getup, being pursued by a stranger for unknown reasons is terrifying.
"'Regardless of whether the individual intended the behaviour as a joke, following a young person and causing them to fear for their safety is extremely concerning,' said Cpl. [Devon] Gerrits of the West Kelowna RCMP. 'People should understand that behaviour intended as a prank can have serious consequences when it causes another person to reasonably fear for their safety.'"
The person in question is being sought. Their motive is unclear.
What People Should Do If They Are Followed
The West Kelowna RCMP suggest a few steps to take if individuals think they are being pursued. To to a safe location where there are lots of people. Get in touch with someone trustworthy. Call 911 if you are in danger.
A Separate, Ominous Viral Trend Involving This Beloved Cartoon Character Is Occurring
Per Fox26News Houston, the "Cat in the Hat trend" is going viral on social media. It's not being taken lightly. Using AI or digital alteration, a person is shown dressed as Cat in the Hat and "making threatening statements." Those statements are allegedly aimed at communities, schools, and students.
The trend is considered sufficiently sinister or potentially disruptive that law enforcement and school districts have warned the public about these posts. The consequences can be severe. Per the outlet, "...[M]ore than 10 juveniles have been arrested nationwide in connection with similar posts."
