Rue, a brave and resilient one-year-old tabby and white cat, defied the odds after surviving a terrifying plunge from a 12th-floor balcony of a Minneapolis apartment building. The incident, which occurred on June 24, left Rue with severe injuries including multiple broken bones.
Lisa LaVerdiere, Executive Director of Home for Life animal sanctuary in Stillwater, where Rue is now receiving care, described Rue as overcoming the cruelty inflicted upon her. Rue, named after the French word for street, landed on the pavement outside Parkview Apartments, the victim of what witnesses described as someone throwing her out of a window.
Despite suffering two broken legs and fractures to her lower jaw, Rue’s spirit remains strong. She underwent emergency surgery for her legs and is currently being cared for with the assistance of a gastric tube for feeding. Plans are underway for further dental procedures to stabilize her jaw.
The incident drew attention and concern from the community, with witnesses including Nasteho Abdi, who alerted Animal Control upon discovering Rue’s injuries. According to reports, multiple witnesses, including children playing nearby, saw the tragic event unfold.
Animal Control swiftly intervened, ensuring Rue received immediate medical attention and arranging for her transfer to Home for Life sanctuary. LaVerdiere expressed gratitude for the community’s support in funding Rue’s recovery and caring for other animals in need.
While authorities have closed the case without finding anyone responsible, the incident underscores the need for vigilance and compassion towards animals. Rue’s journey to recovery serves as a testament to resilience and the kindness of those who rallied to her aid in her time of need.