Three Neighbors Use Chainsaw to Free Man Trapped by Tree

A tree-cutting accident could have ended in tragedy, but three quick-thinking neighbors turned a potential disaster into a story of community heroism.

Peter Tishler was cutting firewood in Newton, New Jersey when a tree suddenly fell and pinned him to the ground. He cried out for help, hoping someone would hear him from the wooded area.

Anthony Lucky, Ethan Smith, and Eric Smith were playing in a nearby backyard when they heard the desperate calls. The three didn't hesitate.

Eric Smith grabbed his chainsaw and ran toward the sound. He found Tishler trapped beneath the heavy tree and got to work immediately.

"Eric not only called the police, but grabbed his chainsaw, ran out there, cut the tree off him, and saved him before the police even got there," Police Chief Daniel Finkel told the Newton Town Council during a March 23 ceremony honoring the trio.

The group's quick action likely prevented serious injury or worse. They managed to free Tishler and provide assistance until emergency responders arrived on scene.

Sunny's Take

This is what neighbors are supposed to do for each other, and these three showed up when it mattered most. Chief Finkel called them "fine young gentlemen," and that feels like an understatement when you consider how many people might have frozen in that moment or second-guessed themselves.

The Newton Town Council presented civilian awards to all three rescuers at their meeting. Town Manager Thomas S. Russo Jr. joined council members in recognizing how their timely intervention prevented what could have been a life-threatening situation.

Tishler attended the ceremony himself and is recovering well from the incident, officials confirmed. Seeing the man you saved walk into the room to thank you must be quite a feeling.

In a world that often feels disconnected, three neighbors proved that paying attention to the people around you can literally save a life.