The Mission District in San Francisco is grieving the loss of a beloved communal cat named KitKat, who tragically died after being struck by a Waymo driverless car.
The incident occurred on October 27, when KitKat was found with fatal wounds around 11:40 p.m., according to an article from Mission Local. Waymo later confirmed that one of its autonomous vehicles was responsible for hitting the cat.
In a statement, the company provided more details about the incident: “We reviewed this, and while our vehicle was stopped to pick up passengers, a nearby cat darted under our vehicle as it was pulling away.” Waymo also sent condolences to KitKat’s owners and the community “who knew and loved him.” Additionally, the company pledged to make a donation to a local animal rights organization, though they did not specify the amount.
### Is Waymo to Blame?
Waymo has not released footage of the incident, and their description makes it sound like a simple accident. However, on X (formerly Twitter), many people are holding the company accountable. Witnesses claim that the autonomous vehicle didn’t attempt to stop.
Driverless cars aren’t perfect and have caused injuries in the past. Interestingly, a video posted to TikTok in September shows a Waymo vehicle stopping for a cat lying in the street, indicating that these cars are at least theoretically capable of avoiding such collisions.
Online, calls for justice for KitKat have grown loud. One user wrote, “KitKat deserves more than @Waymo, we need justice!” Another added, “So let’s get this right, no one likes Waymo and everyone loved KitKat.” The public sentiment is clearly in support of the beloved cat.
### The Community Mourns KitKat
None of this changes the fact that there is a cat-shaped hole in the heart of the Mission District.
KitKat called Randa’s Market on 16th Street home. He was often seen lounging on the convenience store’s counter, receiving pets and treats from customers. KitKat first appeared at Randa’s six years ago and quickly became a local icon.
He was also the star of Randa’s Market’s Instagram account, which features many photos of the adorable tabby cat. The most recent post, from six days ago, confirmed the sad news of KitKat’s passing.
“We’re heartbroken to share that our beloved store cat, KitKat, has passed away,” the caption reads.
The comments flooded in with users sending condolences and sharing their grief. “In tears writing this because this kitty meant so much to all of us,” one person wrote. Another added, “Absolutely crushed me yesterday walking to BART on my way home from work and I saw the memorial.”
KitKat may be gone, but his memory lives on in the hearts of the Mission District community.
https://wegotthiscovered.com/fyi/he-brought-warmth-smiles-and-comfort-california-neighborhood-in-mourning-after-local-cat-struck-and-killed-by-a-waymo-robotaxi/