Police in Canada are investigating after a teenage girl was allegedly chased at night by a person wearing a costume resembling the Cat in the Hat, as unsettling videos involving the character continue to circulate online.
The incident happened in West Kelowna, British Columbia, at about 9pm on August 24. The girl managed to reach her home safely, but the person involved has not been identified.
West Kelowna RCMP said the pursuit was reported in the 2,000 block of Shamrock Drive and described it as a “concerning prank”. Officers have appealed for doorbell, security or dash-camera footage that may help identify the suspect.
Police said wearing a costume was not, by itself, a criminal offence. However, following or pursuing somebody in a way that causes them to fear for their safety could amount to criminal harassment, depending on the evidence.
“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 Corporal Devon Gerrits of West Kelowna RCMP.
He added that behaviour intended as a prank could have serious consequences if it caused another person to reasonably fear for their safety.
Cat in the Hat trend sparks warnings
The reported chase comes amid a string of Cat in the Hat encounters and threats shared on social media across the UK, Ireland and the US, prompting concern among children, parents and school staff.
Safeguarding experts have warned that much of the online material appears to be AI-generated, with clips depicting the character outside homes, near schools and on streets. Some posts have also made unverified claims about violence or named particular schools and locations.
West Kelowna RCMP has advised anyone who believes they are being followed to move towards a safe, populated place, contact a trusted adult and call emergency services if they are in immediate danger.
