The next day, Mary urgently needed a bathroom, so Withey used his phone to search for a nearby location. He found Pine Hill School nearby and suggested they go there for warmth and facilities.
To gain access, Withey resorted to using brake pads to break a window in the school kitchen, unintentionally triggering the security alarm. Although this action could have consequences, his main priority was ensuring the safety and comfort of everyone involved.
Once inside, Withey checked for other stranded individuals and led them to safety. In total, he successfully rescued around two dozen people, ranging in age from 20 to 70, along with a few pets. The group found shelter, warmth, and food at the school.
Withey stayed at the school until 8:00 p.m. on Christmas Day, ensuring the safe return of the last person he had rescued. Before leaving, he left an apology note, which was later discovered by the Cheektowaga Police Department during their investigation into the break-in.
“To whomever it may concern, I’m terribly sorry about breaking the school window and for breaking into the kitchen,” the note read. “I had to do it to save everyone and get them shelter, food, and a bathroom.”
Although the alarm had alerted the police, they were unable to respond immediately due to the severe weather conditions caused by the blizzard.
In the end, no arrests were made. Surveillance footage from the school showed a community coming together to help one another as the storm passed. The police commended Withey for his efforts in saving lives that day.