‘MacGyver’ saves a raccoon, more porta-potty blowups

By the Editorial Team · Sunday, September 20, 2026

Animal control officers in Medway successfully rescued a young raccoon trapped in a vehicle’s suspension, while other Massachusetts police departments responded to incidents including fireworks detonated inside portable toilets and unusual reports of suspicious activity and improper parking. These varied calls underscore the broad range of challenges local authorities manage to ensure community safety and order.

Local authorities recently responded to a variety of unusual incidents across several Massachusetts communities, illustrating the diverse range of calls handled by police and animal control.

On June 15, animal control officers from Millis/Medway were called to assist with a young raccoon trapped near a vehicle tire in Medway. The animal had become wedged in the vehicle’s suspension springs while playing, prompting a rescue operation. Erin Mallette, an animal control officer, initially responded but soon enlisted the help of Norfolk animal control officer Hilary Cohen, known for her problem-solving skills with wildlife rescues. Cohen elevated the car using a jack to relax the suspension, creating enough space for Mallette to extract the raccoon safely. Both animals were unharmed and released back together.

In a separate incident on July 28, police in Dennis responded to reports of fireworks being ignited inside portable toilets at Corporation Beach and Howes Street Beach on Cape Cod. The explosions caused significant damage to two porta-potties. Dennis police, along with a member of the Barnstable County sheriff’s crime scene unit, documented the scene. The portable toilet company was notified, and an investigation into the cause and responsibility remains ongoing, according to Dennis Police Sergeant Ryan Carr.

More recently, on September 14, Beverly police addressed a report of suspicious activity after a resident noticed a tarp appearing in their backyard within a short time frame. The caller expressed concern that the tarp might conceal a body. Upon investigation, officers determined the tarp was actually a grill cover lying on the ground. The item was returned to its proper place on the grill, and no further action was needed.

Earlier in the month, on September 4, an unusual parking complaint was filed at the Hopkinton police station. A caller reported a vehicle parked in a handicap space on Cedar Street without a disability license plate. The vehicle reportedly displayed a makeshift sign bearing the word “police” on its windshield. Officers searched the area but were unable to locate the vehicle in question.

These incidents highlight some of the more uncommon but noteworthy situations faced daily by local law enforcement and animal control agencies.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.