Police investigate report of B.C. teen chased by Cat in the Hat-costumed person

Police in B.C. are investigating a report that a teenage girl was chased by an unknown person dressed as the Cat in the Hat on the evening of Aug. 24.

RCMP said the girl was walking near Shamrock Drive and Old Okanagan Highway in West Kelowna when she was reportedly chased by the person, who was dressed as the Dr. Seuss character. Police said she was uninjured and made it home safely.

Mounties said wearing a costume is not a criminal offence, but following someone in a way that makes them feel threatened may constitute criminal harassment. West Kelowna RCMP Cpl. Devon Gerrits said it is extremely concerning when a young person is followed and fears for their safety, whether or not the behaviour was intended as a joke.

Anyone with relevant doorbell-camera or dash-camera footage from the area at about 9 p.m. is asked to call West Kelowna RCMP at 250-768-2880.