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A rookie officer from the NYPD is being celebrated as a hero after saving the life of a 2-year-old boy who was choking. Remarkably, this act of bravery comes just weeks after he rescued another infant in a similar situation.
On January 16, Officer Freddy Cerpa, along with his partner Officer Megan Ficken, swiftly responded to a 911 call about an unconscious toddler in the Bronx. The 2-year-old boy was struggling to breathe due to choking.
Their body cameras captured the tense and urgent efforts both officers made to clear the child’s airway, showcasing their calm under pressure and quick action in a life-threatening situation.
Thanks to their prompt intervention, the boy regained signs of life. He had been choking on mucus and was subsequently transported to Jacobi Hospital as a precautionary measure. Happily, he is reported to be doing well, according to police officials.
Officer Cerpa humbly credits his partner, Officer Ficken, for the success of the latest rescue, underscoring the teamwork and dedication that characterize their service.
“Just weeks after saving an infant who was choking, Officer Freddy Cerpa once again stepped in to help save the life of a 2-year-old child in distress — a powerful reminder that New York’s Finest are always ready when seconds matter most,” the New York City Police Foundation said in a social media post.
Bodycam video showed officers working to clear the child’s airway. (Handout)
Cerpa told WABC-TV that his experience helping to save a 1-year-old girl in December helped with the latest rescue call.
The 2-year-old boy is going well, according to police. (Handout)
“The first one was definitely surreal,” Cerpa told the outlet of the first rescue. “But in my opinion, this one is all Officer Ficken, and she was there first. I was just glad I was able to assist her.”