The Mission District of San Francisco is enveloped in grief following the tragic death of a beloved neighborhood cat, KitKat, who served as the unofficial mascot of Randa’s Market. The furry friend was struck late Monday night by a Waymo autonomous vehicle, sending shockwaves through the community that embraced him as one of their own.
KitKat, affectionately nicknamed “the Mayor of 16th Street,” had a knack for making connections with patrons, establishing himself as a cherished presence for nearly a decade. His charm and friendliness made him a familiar sight in the market, where he greeted customers with warmth. Neighbor Margarita Lawa expressed the collective sentiment saying, “It was everybody’s cat. Everybody loved KitKat.”
In response to his untimely passing, a memorial has sprung up just outside the market, a testament to the impact KitKat had on the lives of those in the area. Lawa, who recounted a touching experience of spending a night with him when he accidentally got locked out, emphasized the profound bond many shared with him, remarking, “He was so lovable.”
Community member Lara took it upon herself to create an altar for KitKat, though she insists that it was a communal effort. “This was built by the community,” she shared, highlighting the contributions of various locals who brought flowers, candles, toy mice, and even a crown to honor their fallen friend. Lara believes this memorial serves an essential purpose for the neighborhood, providing an opportunity for closure and collective remembrance.
Owner Mike Zeidan expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming support from the community. “It’s really touching, and we are very thankful and appreciative of all the love and support,” he said, reflecting on the response to KitKat’s death.
The heartfelt tributes continue to grow at the memorial, adorned with notes and tokens that capture the deep affection the community felt for the feline. One neighbor, recalling the moment they discovered KitKat’s fate, noted the shock of mistaken identity, “At first I thought it was a human friend, and then I recognized it was a different friend.”
While the void left by KitKat is immense, the love he inspired will not be forgotten. Lara poignantly stated, “There’s nothing like this. Everybody knows there’s nothing like this. No other cat is going to be like this. It’s already a big void.” This sentiment echoes the hearts of many, as they cherish the memories of a cat who brought joy, connection, and a sense of belonging to those around him.