November 15, 2025 — At approximately 7:00 a.m., the Newberry Township Fire Department was dispatched to a public assist call involving an individual who had become secured in a pair of handcuffs. Upon arrival, Newberry Township Police Department officers were already on scene and had attempted to free the individual, but the cuffs were non-standard and required a specialized key that was not available.

Firefighters utilized components from their Man vs. Machine kit, equipment designed for precise and delicate entrapments. Crews stabilized the individual’s wrist, protected surrounding skin, and carefully made a small, controlled cut through the metal while isolating the locking bar to prevent heat or pressure transfer. The handcuffs were successfully removed without injury, and the individual declined EMS evaluation.

Public assist calls of this nature are uncommon, but department officials noted they highlight the wide range of situations firefighters train for beyond traditional emergencies.

Earlier the same morning, Rescue 31 and Rescue 26 responded to a rollover crash on Interstate 83 near the 30-mile marker. All occupants had exited the vehicle prior to arrival and declined EMS care. Crews stabilized the vehicle, cleared roadway debris, and then returned to service.