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Max Mobility / Permobil Recalls Speed Control Dial Over Safety Concerns

Max Mobility, LLC., in cooperation with Permobil, has announced a nationwide recall of the Speed Control Dial component used in the SmartDrive MX2+ Power Assist Device. This voluntary recall, initiated due to potential safety and performance concerns, was made public through an FDA announcement dated January 17, 2025.

The recall addresses issues with a material change in the printed circuit board assembly of the Speed Control Dial, which may result in multiple performance issues including continued drive when supposed to stop, involuntary motor activation, loss of power, and failure to start driving. As of December 12, 2024, the company has received 646 complaints and reports of three serious injuries related to these malfunctions, including fractures of the hip, tibia, and malleolus bone.

Impacted products were manufactured and distributed between August 17, 2023, and November 21, 2024, through authorized dealers. The risk involves minor injuries such as skin irritation and serious injuries including bone fractures and concussions, potentially affecting not just users but those around them.

Affected customers are urged to use the QR code provided in the company’s communication to access the field action portal for a replacement unit. Max Mobility/Permobil has detailed steps for both dealers and end users to follow in securing replacements, including verifying the completion of the correction.

For assistance, customers can contact Max Mobility/Permobil technical support available Monday to Friday, or report adverse reactions to the FDA’s MedWatch program.

Runaway Juvenile

On 11/05/26 at 0725 hours, Spencer Newman ran away from his residence. Newman is 5’9, 125 pounds, white male, brown eyes, brown hair and was last seen wearing a brown

Fred Allen Blocher 1943-2026

Fred Allen Blocher, 83, of Gardners, PA passed away Saturday, October 24 2026 at his home. Born October 19, 1943 in Gettysburg, he was the son of the late Fred

Frank Charles Henry 1945-2026

Born January 4, 1945 in Washington, D.C., Frank was an avid Civil War enthusiast who loved to share his knowledge with others.

Who We Are

The Franklin County Free Press, established by Vicky Taylor in 2019, emerged as a beacon of local journalism for the residents of Franklin County. Under Vicky's leadership, it quickly became an essential source of news, particularly at a time when major newspaper publications were increasingly overlooking local coverage.

On January 1, 2022, the torch was passed to Nathan Neil and his firm, Neil Publishing, LLC. Neil, a local entrepreneur with multiple thriving businesses in Chambersburg, shares Vicky's fervent commitment to both the community and the world of local journalism.

Rooted in the heart of Franklin County and powered by its residents, the Franklin County Free Press continues to bridge the gap, ensuring that the local stories, events, and issues that matter most to the community remain in the spotlight.