The following day, Mary found herself in need of a bathroom, prompting Withey to search for a possible location using his phone. He identified Pine Hill School nearby and suggested to the group that they could go there for warmth and facilities.
To gain entry to the school, Withey resorted to using brake pads to break the windows in the school kitchen, triggering the security alarm. While his actions might have consequences, his primary concern was ensuring the well-being of everyone involved.
After entering the school, Withey checked for any additional stranded individuals and guided them to safety. In total, he successfully rescued two dozen people ranging from 20 to 70 years old, along with some pets. The rescued group found shelter, warmth, and sustenance.
Withey remained at the school until 8:00 p.m. on Christmas Day, ensuring the safe return of the last person he had rescued. Before departing, he left a note of apology, later discovered by the Cheektowaga Police Department during their investigation into the school break-in.
“To whomever it may concern, I’m terribly sorry about breaking the school window and for breaking into the kitchen,” his letter expressed. “I had to do it to save everyone and get them shelter, food, and a bathroom.”
Upon setting off the alarm, the police were promptly alerted, but due to adverse weather conditions, they couldn’t respond immediately. The area was severely affected by the blizzard.
Ultimately, no arrests were made, as surveillance footage from the school revealed a community looking out for one another as the snowstorm passed. The police acknowledged Withey for his actions in saving lives that day