Creepy 'Cat in the Hat' trend targets schools as costumed figure allegedly chases teen girl

A shadowy figure dressed as the Cat in the Hat allegedly chased a teenage girl through a Canadian neighborhood, as a creepy online trend featuring sinister depictions of the beloved children’s character has prompted investigations and school warnings targeting schools and students across multiple states.

The unidentified girl was walking in West Kelowna, British Columbia, at about 9 p.m.

Aug.

24 when a person wearing a costume resembling the Dr.

Seuss character allegedly began chasing her, according to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.

The teen escaped and reached her home safely, but police are still working to identify the costumed individual.

POLICE IDENTIFY SUSPECT ACCUSED OF TERRORIZING PHILADELPHIA WOMEN WHILE WEARING CREEPY CHUCKY-STYLE MASK "Regardless of whether the individual intended the behavior as a joke, following a young person and causing them to fear for their safety is extremely concerning," Cpl.

Devon Gerrits said.

"People should understand that behavior intended as a prank can have serious consequences when it causes another person to reasonably fear for their safety." TIMELINE REVEALS HOW MAN IN 'CHUCKY' MASK TERRORIZED PHILADELPHIA STREETS, EVADED POLICE Investigators said wearing a costume is not a crime by itself, but pursuing someone in a way that causes reasonable fear could constitute criminal harassment .

Assault, threats or intimidation charges could also be considered depending on the evidence.

Anyone who believes they are being followed or pursued should move toward a populated location, contact a trusted adult and call 911 if they are in immediate danger, the West Kelowna RCMP advised.

Police are asking anyone with doorbell, security or dashcam video taken near the 2000 block of Shamrock Drive at about 9 p.m.

Aug.

24 to contact the West Kelowna RCMP.