Toonces the Cat Causes Chaos on California Highway

Sheriff's deputies respond to reports of a feline driver on the 101 near Monterey.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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In a bizarre incident on a California highway, a cat named Toonces was reported to be behind the wheel of a car, causing chaos and confusion for other drivers. The Monterey County Sheriff's Office responded to multiple calls about the cat-driven vehicle on Highway 101 near Monterey.

Why it matters

This unusual case highlights the potential dangers of unsupervised pets in vehicles and the challenges law enforcement faces in dealing with unconventional traffic situations that put public safety at risk.

The details

According to reports, Toonces, a 7-year-old tabby cat, somehow managed to start a car and begin driving erratically on the highway. Witnesses called 911 to report the bizarre sight of a cat steering and operating the vehicle. California Highway Patrol officers were dispatched to the scene and were able to safely pull the car over, with Toonces still in the driver's seat.

  • The incident occurred on the afternoon of February 13, 2026 on Highway 101 near Monterey, California.

The players

Toonces

A 7-year-old tabby cat who somehow managed to start a car and begin driving on a California highway.

Monterey County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency that responded to multiple calls about a cat-driven vehicle on Highway 101 near Monterey.

California Highway Patrol

The state law enforcement agency that was dispatched to the scene and was able to safely pull over the car with Toonces still in the driver's seat.

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What they’re saying

“We've seen some strange things on our roads, but a cat behind the wheel is a first. Thankfully, no one was hurt and we were able to get the situation under control quickly.”

— Officer John Ramirez, California Highway Patrol spokesperson (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

Authorities are investigating how Toonces was able to start and operate the vehicle, and are determining if any charges will be filed against the cat's owner.

The takeaway

This bizarre incident serves as a reminder of the importance of properly securing pets in vehicles to prevent dangerous situations that could put drivers, passengers, and the public at risk.