In a heartbreaking incident that has sparked renewed debate about autonomous vehicle safety, a beloved bodega cat named KitKat was tragically killed by a Waymo self-driving car in San Francisco’s Mission District. The incident occurred on 16th Street, outside Randa’s Market, where KitKat had been a cherished fixture since 2020.

Waymo has acknowledged its vehicle’s involvement in the cat’s death and pledged to make a donation to a local animal rights organization. However, the company’s statement suggests the cat “darted” under the vehicle, a claim that contradicts eyewitness accounts. One 311 caller reported that the Waymo vehicle allegedly swerved in front of another car and hit the cat at high speed without attempting to stop.

This tragic event highlights growing community concerns about autonomous vehicle technology. Neighbor Sarah Koohnz expressed her frustration, noting she and others have previously been hit by similar vehicles. The incident comes on the heels of ongoing discussions about AI safety and technological accountability.

Just hours before KitKat’s death, Waymo CEO Tekedra Mawakana was discussing the challenges of robotic vehicle acceptance at TechCrunch Disrupt. When asked if society would accept potential fatalities caused by autonomous vehicles, she expressed cautious optimism, emphasizing the need for rigorous safety standards.

The cat’s death has resonated deeply in the community, with a growing memorial shrine outside Randa’s Market symbolizing the emotional impact. It also follows a high-profile incident involving Waymo’s competitor Cruise, which resulted in a pedestrian being severely injured.

As autonomous vehicles become increasingly prevalent in urban landscapes, incidents like these raise critical questions about technological ethics, safety protocols, and the potential unintended consequences of AI-driven transportation. The tech industry continues to grapple with balancing innovation with responsible implementation.

While Waymo maintains that its vehicles are statistically safer than human-driven cars, community trust remains fragile. The loss of KitKat serves as a poignant reminder that technological progress must be accompanied by genuine empathy and comprehensive safety measures.