The heart of San Francisco's Mission District is breaking after a beloved community cat was killed by a self-driving vehicle, raising urgent questions about the safety of autonomous cars as they prepare to hit London's streets.
A Feline Fixture Gone Too Soon
KitKat, affectionately known as the 'unofficial mayor' of his neighbourhood, was more than just a pet. The ginger tabby had become a local celebrity, greeting customers daily at Randa's Market and brightening the days of countless residents.
On October 27, the unthinkable happened. As KitKat went about his usual routine, a Waymo Robotaxi struck him while pulling away from a passenger pickup. Despite immediate efforts from a nearby bartender who rushed him to veterinary hospital, the cherished cat couldn't be saved.
Community Outpouring and Anger
The news has triggered an avalanche of grief and anger throughout San Francisco. Locals have created a makeshift shrine at Randa's Market, sharing touching videos and photos of the feline who touched so many lives.
Mike Zeidan, owner of Randa's Market, expressed the community's devastation: 'He was a special cat. You can tell by the love and support he's getting from the community that he was amazing.'
Political Backlash and Safety Concerns
San Francisco Supervisor Jackie Fielder didn't mince words: 'Waymo thinks they can just sweep this under the rug and we will all forget, but here in the Mission, we will never forget our sweet KitKat.'
The tragedy took on additional significance when it was revealed that on the very same day KitKat died, Waymo co-CEO Tekedra Mawakana stated she believed society is 'ready to accept deaths' caused by automated cars.
KitKat's owner voiced the fear now haunting many: 'Next time, the death could be that of a child, not just a beloved pet.'
Waymo's Response and London Expansion
In an official statement, Waymo explained: '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. We send our deepest sympathies to the cat's owner and the community who knew and loved him.'
The company confirmed they've made a donation to a local animal rights organisation in KitKat's honour.
Despite the incident and growing safety concerns, Waymo remains committed to launching a fully driverless ride-hailing service in London in 2026.
British Public Skepticism
Recent YouGov polling reveals significant public distrust of autonomous vehicles in the UK:
- Only 3% of Britons trust driverless taxis 'a great deal'
- 14% trust them 'a fair amount'
- 44% wouldn't trust them at all
- 79% express little or no trust
- 85% would choose a human-driven taxi over driverless when cost and convenience are equal
As San Francisco mourns a four-legged friend, London faces its own questions about whether the city is ready to welcome the technology that failed to see a beloved cat in its path.
