CD8+ T cells specific to HAV‐unrelated viruses are activated and proliferate during AHA. Hepatocytes from HAV‐infected liver overexpressed NKG2D ligands, making them potential cytolytic targets of bystander‐activated HAV‐unrelated virus‐specific CD8+ T cells. Liver injury during AHA is associated with innate‐like cytotoxic function of bystander‐activated CD8+ T cells. The gene discussed is KLRK1; the disease is autoimmune hemolytic anemia.