MURFREESBORO, TN - In the early hours of Saturday morning, Murfreesboro Fire‑Rescue crews rushed to Pennington Drive after receiving a call about someone trapped inside a stormwater drain. The subdivision, located between Thompson Lane and Sulphur Springs Road near Lighthouse Baptist Church, became the scene of an unusual but urgent rescue.

Firefighters quickly confirmed that the individual was stuck about 70 feet inside the drain. Crews entered the confined space within minutes, while additional units were requested to assist. During the operation, responders discovered another drain opening closer to the trapped person. Determining it was the safest option, they used that access point to carefully remove the individual.

Ropes were employed to secure and pull the person out, while air monitors ensured the atmosphere inside the drain was safe for both the patient and the firefighters. Once freed, Rutherford County EMS transported the individual to Ascension St. Thomas Rutherford Hospital, where they were treated for minor injuries.

The response involved a wide range of units: Engine 7, Rescue 4, Ladder 11, Rescue 11, Safety 1, Safety 2, and Battalion Chiefs 1 and 2. Officials emphasized that the coordinated teamwork allowed the rescue to be completed quickly and safely.

Murfreesboro Fire‑Rescue Chief Mark McKluskey praised his crews afterward, noting that while many may wonder how someone ended up inside the drain, the focus should remain on the professionalism of the rescue. “The point is that it did happen, and someone needed to be rescued. A well‑trained team of professional firefighters stepped into action and safely got them out of the drain. You never know when this could be you or someone you love, so I’m thankful for the men and women of the Murfreesboro Fire Department who are trained and ready to perform these rescues and save lives, whoever it may be. Job well done, and thank you.”

The incident, which occurred just after 1:00 a.m., highlights the department’s readiness to respond to any emergency. As an all‑hazards agency, Murfreesboro Fire‑Rescue trains for a wide variety of scenarios, from fires and medical calls to unusual rescues like this one. For residents near Pennington Drive, the successful operation was a reminder of the dedication and skill of local first responders.