UPDATE: The Mission District in San Francisco is in mourning following the tragic death of KitKat, a beloved bodega cat, who was struck by a Waymo autonomous vehicle on the evening of July 10, 2023. This incident has sparked outrage in the neighborhood and online as residents grapple with the loss of their cherished feline companion.
Witnesses reported that KitKat, a well-loved nine-year-old tabby known for his friendly demeanor, was sitting next to Randa’s Market when the incident occurred. A 311 complaint filed shortly after midnight detailed that the Waymo vehicle did not slow down or swerve to avoid the cat. “Waymos should not be on the street if they can’t spot small animals in the dark,” the complaint stated.
The owner of Randa’s Market, Mike Zeidan, described KitKat as a unifying presence in the community, affectionately dubbed the “Mayor of 16th Street.” He was alerted to the tragedy by a phone call while at home. An employee rushed KitKat to an emergency veterinary clinic, but sadly, the cat did not survive. “He really was the special, one-of-a-kind thing that brought everybody together,” Zeidan expressed, highlighting the deep emotional impact of KitKat’s passing.
In response to the incident, Waymo confirmed that their vehicle was stopped to pick up passengers when the cat darted under it. A spokesperson offered condolences, stating, “We send our deepest sympathies to the cat’s owner and the community who knew and loved him,” and revealed plans to donate to a local animal rights organization in KitKat’s honor.
The memorial for KitKat at Randa’s Market has grown rapidly, with residents leaving bouquets of marigolds, candles, and heartfelt messages. A sign reading “Kill a Waymo, save a cat” reflects the community’s anger and sorrow. Online, discussions have erupted, with a Reddit thread amassing nearly 2,000 upvotes and social media posts expressing outrage towards Waymo for the incident. Comments such as, “BY A WAYMO?? This means war,” echo the sentiments of distraught locals.
Experts are weighing in on the implications of this incident. Bryant Walker Smith, a professor of engineering and law, indicated that liability for such incidents may be limited, as the law treats pets as property. “Law unfortunately treats pets as mere ‘chattel’ — that is, physical property,” Smith explained. This raises significant questions about the responsibility of autonomous vehicle operators in preventing harm to animals.
While Waymo’s technology utilizes advanced sensors, including radar and lidar, experts note that it may not always detect small animals, particularly those under the vehicle. This incident follows a similar case earlier this year in which a Waymo vehicle fatally struck a dog, raising concerns about the safety of autonomous vehicles in urban settings.
As the community continues to grieve, questions linger about the future of autonomous vehicles in San Francisco. With Waymo expanding its operations across the Bay Area, residents are left to wonder what measures will be taken to ensure the safety of both pets and pedestrians as these vehicles become more prevalent.
The emotional impact of KitKat’s death resonates deeply within the Mission District, a reminder of the unique bond between residents and their furry companions. As the memorial grows, it serves as both a tribute to a beloved cat and a rallying cry for increased awareness surrounding the implications of autonomous technology in urban life.
Residents are urged to stay informed about upcoming community meetings where they can voice concerns about the presence of autonomous vehicles in their neighborhoods. The tragic loss of KitKat has ignited a conversation that extends far beyond one cat, touching on issues of safety, technology, and the human-animal bond.
