Cat in the Hat figure causes concern on Troy's campus

TROY, Ala. (TROJANVISION) — Last week multiple students reported a masked figure dressed as the Cat in the Hat chasing them, walking through dorms, and harassing students.

Pictures of the figure began appearing on popular social media platform YikYak early last week. One picture appeared to show the individual in Smith Hall while another photo was taken via a dorm room’s peephole.

A TikTok account titled “cat_in_da_hat/troy” shows videos of the Cat in the Hat tagging other users and urging them to run, lock their doors, hide and watch out.

One video in particular was recorded in front of Sigma Alpha Epsilon’s house.

The Troy University Police Department said it has seen similar videos from other places and has deemed the Troy situation a Halloween prank.

“I hope that this is just in the event that it’s October and everybody is getting in the Halloween spirit,” said Rachel Farmer, TUPD sergeant.

Although TUPD is chalking up the recent sightings to harmless pranks, sightings of the masked figure from other places around the world have turned more serious.

Some schools across the country have urged students to report sightings after images posted to social media, some mixed with AI, showed the figure following and even chasing people.

The sightings have also sparked discussion about a similar trend years ago where masked clowns were seen harassing and intimidating people, some even being seen on Troy’s campus.

Although these activities may seem like harmless fun during Halloween, Farmer said it is better to be overly cautious.

“I understand that you might see someone dressed up or in a mask and think that there is nothing to it, but just be on alarm and be aware of your surroundings on a night like that.”

Farmer urges any student that feels uncomfortable to contact TUPD.

“There is nothing wrong with calling us. I would rather be called and go talk to them and it was nothing than nobody call and something bad happens.”

TUPD can be contacted via the number’s below: