When a tiny orange kitten was heard meowing from inside a Komatsu excavator on an Ohio construction site, the crew at Riverreach Construction didn’t just ignore the sound—they acted. Operating supervisor Chase Guello posted a series of videos to social media last month documenting the rescue of the little feline, who was later named Sue by the crew.
From excavator to foster home
Guello explained that the kitten was discovered wandering the interior of the heavy‑duty machine, clearly frightened and in need of help. After safely removing Sue from the equipment, the crew arranged for her to stay with a trusted friend of Guello’s mother, who agreed to foster the kitten while a longer‑term plan was worked out.
Plans for a permanent shop cat
Riverreach Construction intends to keep Sue on site as a shop cat. The plan is for her to split her time between the home of the crew’s shop mechanic and the job site itself, giving her a safe environment while she grows older. Once she reaches an appropriate age, Sue will become a full‑time resident of the crew’s shop, joining a growing tradition of construction teams that keep cats on site for companionship and rodent control.
Komatsu’s supportive gesture
Recognizing the heart‑warming story, Komatsu, the manufacturer of the excavator, sent the crew a small package of branded merchandise for Sue. The kit includes a miniature safety vest and a hard hat—both custom‑fit for the kitten—underscoring the company’s commitment to safety and community outreach.
Social media buzz and future merch
The videos quickly gained traction on Instagram, where both Riverreach Construction and Komatsu shared the adorable footage. Fans of the story have suggested that Sue could become the face of a new line of branded items, and the company’s Instagram pages hint that such a line may be in development. The enthusiasm from the online community reflects a broader appreciation for stories that highlight kindness and teamwork in everyday workplaces.
Why the story matters locally
Beyond the cute factor, the rescue underscores the importance of looking out for the vulnerable, even in places where one might not expect it. For Ohio’s construction community, Sue’s arrival is a reminder that compassion can thrive alongside hard work and that small acts of kindness can strengthen bonds among coworkers.
As the crew continues its projects across the state, Sue will be there—wearing her tiny safety gear, keeping morale high, and reminding everyone that a caring attitude is as essential to a successful job site as any piece of equipment.
Original reporting: NBC4 Los Angeles — read the source article.
