SOUTH THOMASTON — In order to gain access to a single occupant involved in a car crash, Friday afternoon, Nov. 8, 2024, crews called for special equipment out of Rockland FD. 

Just before 2:30 p.m., South Thomaston Fire and Rescue learned that a single vehicle had struck a tree along a windy section of Westbrook Street, near Tidal Creek Road. After hitting the tree, the Toyota Camry fell onto its side, leaving emergency crews unable to open the doors. With the help of Rockland's extrication equipment, known commonly as Jaws of Life, the rear window was removed, allowing medical crews to reach the patient, as well as to reach a blanket inside for the patient's warmth and protection. Crews then removed the windshield and lifted the patient out through the front.

STFD has its own full set of Jaws of Life gear, which were used during the November 8 extrication. However, the FD carries a protocol dictating that whenever there is confirmed entrapment, another town that also carries the equipment is automatically called to help with access and removal of the patient. Depending on which side of South Thomaston the incident occurs on, STFD calls either St. George or Rockland. 

South Thomaston ambulance transported the patient to Pen Bay Medical Center. Knox County Sheriff's Office investigated the incident. AutoMaster Collision Center removed the vehicle.

The closed portion of street reopened to traffic at approximately 3:20 p.m.

Reach Sarah Thompson at news@penbaypilot.com