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16th and Mission bodega welcomes new cat after Waymo tragedy
Shadow, a one-year-old black domestic shorthair, has arrived to take the place of store mascot KitKat, tragically killed by a Waymo self-driving car last year.
Published on Feb. 26, 2026
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After the tragic loss of their beloved store cat KitKat, who was killed by a Waymo self-driving car, the owners of Randa's Market in San Francisco's Mission District have welcomed a new feline friend named Shadow. The one-year-old black domestic shorthair was adopted from the SPCA two weeks ago and has already started to win over customers with his friendly, playful personality.
Why it matters
The loss of KitKat, a longtime fixture on the lively 16th Street corridor, was deeply felt by the community. The incident also sparked calls for legislation to better regulate autonomous vehicles in the city. Shadow's arrival represents a new chapter for the bodega and a chance to honor KitKat's legacy while bringing joy back to the store.
The details
Shadow, who was initially called Mozart before the store owner settled on the new name, has quickly adapted to his new home. Customers have already fallen in love with his cute looks and friendly demeanor. Unlike KitKat, Shadow prefers to stay indoors, though he does enjoy watching the activity on 16th Street from the window. The store owner says Shadow shares some of KitKat's favorite traits, like napping in boxes and perching above the glass display case.
- Shadow arrived at Randa's Market two weeks ago.
- KitKat, the previous store cat, was tragically killed by a Waymo self-driving car last year.
- A memorial shrine outside the store is still populated by fresh flowers four months after KitKat's death.
The players
Randa's Market
A liquor store in San Francisco's Mission District.
Mike Zeidan
The owner of Randa's Market.
KitKat
The previous store cat at Randa's Market, who was tragically killed by a Waymo self-driving car last year.
Coco
Another store cat at Randa's Market who went into early retirement after being diagnosed with feline leukemia.
Shadow
The new one-year-old black domestic shorthair cat who has arrived at Randa's Market to take the place of KitKat.
What they’re saying
“He's adapted pretty well. He seems very happy and very friendly with the customers”
— Mike Zeidan, Store owner (Mission Local)
“He has some of KitKat's traits. He loves boxes. Anytime I open a box, he wants to go and jump in it.”
— Mike Zeidan, Store owner (Mission Local)
The takeaway
Shadow's arrival at Randa's Market represents a new chapter for the beloved bodega after the tragic loss of their previous store cat KitKat. While no one can replace the iconic KitKat, Shadow's friendly and playful personality is already bringing joy back to the store and the 16th Street community.
