Ohio Construction Crew Rescues Kitten Trapped in Excavator

Animal Welfare

Sep 10

By Kendall Jang, Staff Writer

A tiny kitten rescued from a piece of construction equipment in Northeast Ohio has found a home and a place on the crew.

The kitten was discovered in July when Chase Guello, an operating supervisor with RiverReach Construction, heard cries coming from an excavator while checking the equipment. After removing the skid plates underneath the machine, the crew was able to safely free her.

The kitten was named Komatsu, or “Sue” for short, after the equipment brand. After spending a couple of weeks with a foster, Sue returned to the construction crew and now lives with the company’s shop mechanic. She is expected to become a regular presence in the office once she is old enough.

Her story has since reached millions of people online, and Komatsu North America even sent Sue her own tiny safety vest and hard hat.

Beyond being an adorable Ohio rescue story, Sue’s experience is a reminder of the difference people can make when they notice an animal in need and take the time to help.

If you find a kitten outdoors, consider the circumstances before immediately removing them. Their mother may be nearby, and the appropriate response can depend on the kitten’s age, health and immediate safety.