Police Say There Is No Proof of ‘Cat Man’ Sightings in Cumbria
Police say there is currently no proof to support reports of a person dressed as a cat frightening people on a West Cumbrian cycle path.
The claims began circulating online after pictures and a video appeared on social media over the weekend. The content reportedly showed a person like figure dressed in black, with cat ears and a tail. Crouching on a section of cycle path between Cleator Moor and Egremont.
The posts quickly spread across social media. With some people claiming children had been frightened by the person. Others described the images and video as disturbing and upsetting.
Cumbria Police said officers are aware of the posts, but they have only received one report relating to the incident. The force said it currently has no information to substantiate the claims.
What Police Have Said
Cumbria Police said the posts circulating online may cause concern in the local community, but there is no confirmed evidence at this stage.
A police spokesman said: “At this time, we have no information to substantiate it.”
Police have advised people to keep a safe distance and avoid engaging if they are approached by someone acting in an aggressive or unpredictable way.
Anyone who witnesses similar behaviour, or has information about the incident, is asked to report it to police on 101. Anyone who feels at immediate risk should call 999.
Where Were the Sightings Reported?
The unverified images and video are said to show a person on a cycle path between Cleator Moor and Egremont.
There have also been social media claims of a similar sighting at Egremont skate park.
However, it is important to note that these claims have not been confirmed. The origin of the images and video is also unknown.
Could It Be a Hoax or AI?
At this stage, it is not known whether the images and video are real, staged, AI-generated or part of a hoax.
The content has been shared thousands of times online. But that does not mean it has been verified. Images and videos can spread very quickly on social media, especially when they are unusual, frightening or strange.
This can make it hard for people to know what is true and what has been exaggerated.
Advice for Local Residents
Anyone using cycle paths, parks or quieter public areas should follow normal personal safety advice.
This includes:
- Staying aware of your surroundings.
- Avoiding confrontation with anyone acting strangely.
- Keeping a safe distance if someone appears aggressive or unpredictable.
- Reporting suspicious or threatening behaviour to police.
- Calling 999 if there is an immediate danger.
- Speaking to children calmly if they have seen upsetting posts online.
Parents may also want to remind children not to approach strangers, even if something looks unusual or like a joke.
Police Continue to Ask for Information
Cumbria Police have not confirmed that the reported “Cat man” incident happened as described.
However, officers have asked anyone who sees similar behaviour, or who has information that could help, to contact police on 101.
For now, the main message is clear: police are aware of the claims, but there is currently no proof to support them.
