Last week’s snowstorm that brought up to 50.3 inches of snowfall to western New York was no match for the heroic Buffalo man who saved 24 lives during its devastating conditions.

After his truck became lodged on the road, Jay Withey was left with no choice but to spend the night in his vehicle alongside two strangers.

“I walked to the houses to see if I could find shelter, any house that had lights on. I had $500 that I was offering, to sleep on their floor,” Withey said.

After a relentless struggle and being faced with rejection from everyone, he returned to his truck feeling disheartened and overwhelmed by an unfamiliar fear.

“It’s the only time in my life I actually thought I was going to die.”

By 6 o’clock in the morning on Christmas Eve, Withey’s truck had run out of fuel after taking turns with engine operation and sleeping, obliging them to find a suitable place for cover.

“Off to the left, I could see there was a school about 600, 700 feet away from us. I knew the power would be on, there would be heat in there and I was guaranteeing there would be food in there,” Withey said.

After a few moments of pondering, Withey realized that there were other people stranded with him and decided to take drastic action by forcing their way into the school.

Withey and his team of 25, including seven elderly people, arrived at Pine Hill Primary Center and found refuge – tidily setting up what was necessary. In the cafeteria they created an area for themselves, only taking the food that was essential to them; leaving all other items in the jam-packed freezer untouched according to police reports.

As the storm subsided on Christmas Day, “Merry Christmas Jay” discovered the school’s snowblower, and hastily made his way to each of his group members’ vehicles, clearing them with ease. His selfless act enabled everyone present to leave quickly and safely.

Before departing, Withey mended the shattered window with cardboard and duct tape and left behind a letter of apology for his unlawful entry into the school.

“To whomever it may concern, I’m terribly sorry about breaking the school window and fore breaking in the kitchen,” the letter reads. “I had to do it to save everyone and get them shelter and food and a bathroom. Merry Christmas Jay.”

After alerting school officials and the police department of a broken window, an officer soon inspected the premises to find a note. Upon discovering it, authorities scoured through surveillance camera footage for clues that could help them solve this case. Thankfully, when all roads were safe again, they made a breakthrough in their investigation.

After the Cheektowaga Police Department issued a tweet to solicit assistance in their search for this hero, they soon provided assurance that he would not face any charges, but instead be showered with appreciation from an adoring community. After many hours of investigation, it was Withey who saved the day!

Withey declared that the survival group is now a family and has already begun planning an upcoming reunion for summer.

“This group of amazing people took care of each other and the building they found shelter in,” police stated.