Quick thinking DPW workers rescue a raccoon from a rough situation in Malden

MALDEN, Mass. — Some DPW workers in Malden found themselves doing a wildlife rescue on Friday, after finding a raccoon stuck in a rough situation.

Paul Myers was operating his street sweeper on Lake Street and as he approached the sewer grate he saw the head of the raccoon peeking out.

“We’re gonna get you out bud,” said Myers as he took a video of the raccoon. Myers said he spent about 20 minutes speaking with the little raccoon while waiting for some help from some colleagues.

“We’re not going to leave you, buddy,” said Myers as more help arrives to free the raccoon.

Malden’s DPW Director Bob Knox said it was a close call, with the street sweeper approaching.

“Another ten feet could have been the end of that little guy,” said Knox.

As more help arrived, the grate was lifted out of the street with the raccoon still attached. A neighbor then joined the effort.

“A resident gave them the soap to lube him up and wet him down,” said Knox.

“You’re gonna be one of the best smelling raccoons in all of Malden,” said Myers on the video as he and his co-workers made the rescue.

The raccoon was eventually freed, and made his way back home, looking a bit frazzled after the experience.

“Back to safety. Get in the woods,” Myers can be heard saying as the animal heads off. “Yeh, go take a nap.”

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