Last Updated on September 3, 2026 11:53 am
The Avery County Sheriff's Office says it is monitoring a viral social media trend involving videos of the “Cat in the Hat” character, after learning that several Avery County students have received or viewed the content. Officials say they have not identified any specific or credible threat to local schools, students, or the community.
In a public notice issued September 3, 2026, the Sheriff's Office said it became aware of videos depicting individuals dressed as the Dr. Seuss character, which have also surfaced elsewhere in North Carolina and across the country. Out of an abundance of caution, the office says it is actively reviewing the situation and working with local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to determine the origin and scope of the activity and any potential connection to Avery County.
The trend, which has prompted safety warnings from schools and law enforcement agencies nationwide over the past week, features videos and images — some appearing to be AI-generated — showing the character in unsettling scenarios, often lurking outside homes or schools at night. While many posts appear to be pranks or hoaxes, officials in other states have said some versions have named specific schools or communities and included threatening language. At least one arrest connected to the trend has been reported elsewhere in the country, involving a threatening post directed at a school.
The Avery County Sheriff's Office is asking school administrators and staff to remain aware of the situation and is encouraging students who receive similar videos or messages to report them to a school official or law enforcement rather than forwarding or sharing the content. Anyone who receives such material is asked to preserve any information identifying the account, sender, or source for law enforcement review.
The Sheriff's Office said it will continue to monitor the situation and will share additional information if circumstances change.
