NYPD officer rescues neighbor’s one-year-old child from choking incident at Long Island home.
An off-duty New York City Police Department officer played a pivotal role in saving the life of a one-year-old girl who was choking, after her mother, a neighbor, urgently sought his assistance. The incident, which unfolded in Elmont around 2 p.m. on December 7, highlights the dedication and quick thinking of Officer Freddy Cerpa, who has been with the NYPD since October 30, 2024, and is assigned to the 43rd Precinct in the Bronx.
According to official reports from the NYPD, the mother arrived at Officer Cerpa’s residence, her infant daughter in her arms, struggling to breathe due to an unidentified object lodged in the child’s throat. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, Officer Cerpa promptly took action.
Footage shared on social media displays the officer’s calm demeanor as he effectively carried out life-saving measures. In a swift response, he used his fingers to dislodge the obstruction from the girl’s throat and subsequently delivered gentle back taps until she was able to breathe normally once again. This decisive intervention not only alleviated the immediate threat to the child’s life but also underscored the critical role that law enforcement officers can play even outside the confines of their official duties.
The encounter garnered significant attention, resonating with both community members and law enforcement colleagues. The NYPD praised Officer Cerpa’s actions, emphasizing that police officers are always on duty, regardless of their official status at any given moment.
This incident serves as a potent reminder of the unpredictable nature of emergencies and the importance of remaining vigilant and prepared to assist in times of crisis. Officer Cerpa’s quick response undoubtedly made a vital difference, ensuring the safety of the young girl and providing peace of mind to her family during a frightening ordeal.
In addition to highlighting the officer’s immediate life-saving actions, this event reiterates the significance of community ties, where neighbors can rely on one another in times of distress. The story reinforces a collective narrative about the heroic roles that individuals can adopt in everyday situations, reaffirming the impactful presence of law enforcement in our communities.
The NYPD continues to remind the public of the importance of knowing how to respond in emergencies, which can potentially save lives.
