Full Breakdown
Bobcat Intrudes on Kirkland Home After 911 Call Reports Possible Burglary
9/2/2026, 11:54:39 AM
Incident Overview
Last week, a resident of the Moss Bay neighborhood in Kirkland, Washington, heard repeated banging inside the house and dialed 911, believing a burglary was in progress. Responding officers from the Kirkland Police Department entered the home and discovered a lone bobcat perched atop the staircase, growling at the occupants. The animal’s presence prompted the use of an unmanned aircraft (drone) to monitor its movements while officers kept a safe distance.
Police and Wildlife Agency Response
Kirkland police corralled the bobcat into an isolated room and awaited wildlife officials. The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife arrived, sedated the bobcat, and later released it near Forbes Creek, close to the natural habitat where it had been found. No injuries were reported to the homeowner, the police, or the bobcat. The resident’s cat, which may have attracted the bobcat, was also found unharmed. Police indicated the bobcat likely climbed a tree and entered the home through an open window.
Safety Guidance for Residents
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife advises residents to give bobcats plenty of space, never approach or feed them, and keep pets indoors—especially between dusk and dawn. If a bobcat enters a dwelling, the agency recommends moving people and pets away from the area and calling 911 for assistance.
Context and Frequency
While bobcat sightings in suburban areas are uncommon, wildlife officials note that the species can occasionally wander into residential zones, particularly when attracted by domestic animals or unsecured food sources. The incident underscores the importance of securing windows and limiting outdoor access for pets to reduce the likelihood of similar encounters.
