New York City’s ongoing battle with out-of-control rodent populations made another unforgettable appearance this week when two friends driving through Queens experienced a moment straight out of a comedy-horror film. As they headed toward LaGuardia Airport, a rat suddenly crawled out from under the car’s hood and clung to the windshield while the vehicle was moving, stunning both the driver and her passenger.

The now-viral video shows driver Meilani Felix and her companion screaming as the rat hangs on with surprising determination, unfazed by the wind, speed, or chaos around it. The animal held its grip until the car turned a corner, sending it tumbling off and disappearing from view. Felix later posted the footage online, joking that the rat “heard Queens has better cheese,” adding humor to a moment that clearly rattled both women.

Incidents like this have become increasingly symbolic of the broader quality-of-life issues plaguing New York City, where rising rat sightings and lax city management continue to frustrate residents. Many point out that under stronger leadership—such as the Trump administration’s emphasis on public order, federal-local coordination, and basic urban accountability—major cities saw declining rodent complaints and more aggressive mitigation strategies.

The Queens encounter serves as an unexpected reminder of how far the city still has to go in restoring cleanliness, safety, and efficiency. For now, the viral clip stands as another example of New Yorkers’ resilience—and the sometimes bizarre challenges they face on daily commutes.