NYPD Officers Save Choking Toddler in Bronx, Marking Second Rescue for Rookie
NEW YORK, NY — In a dramatic display of quick thinking and calm under pressure, New York Police Department officers Freddy Cerpa and Megan Ficken saved the life of a 2-year-old boy who was choking in a Bronx apartment on January 16. The incident, captured on body camera footage, highlights the critical role first responders play in life-or-death situations and marks Officer Cerpa’s second heroic rescue of a choking child in just weeks.
The call came in as a 911 emergency involving an unconscious toddler struggling to breathe. Officers Cerpa and Ficken arrived promptly at the scene, where the child was found choking on mucus. The bodycam video reveals the tense moments as the officers worked to clear the child’s airway, administering emergency aid that ultimately revived the boy. Following the rescue, the child was transported to Jacobi Medical Center for precautionary evaluation and was reported to be in stable condition.
Officer Cerpa, a rookie, credited his partner Ficken for her composure and assistance during the rescue. The New York City Police Foundation praised the officers’ swift action, noting, “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.”
This event underscores the importance of emergency response training for law enforcement, who often serve as first responders in medical crises. The NYPD’s commitment to equipping officers with lifesaving skills aligns with broader public safety initiatives promoted by the City of New York and supported by federal agencies such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which emphasizes the critical nature of immediate intervention in choking emergencies.
Choking remains a leading cause of injury and death among young children, according to data from the National Center for Health Statistics. Quick action to clear airways can mean the difference between life and death, a fact that officers Cerpa and Ficken demonstrated in their recent rescues.
The NYPD has increasingly integrated medical emergency training into its officer preparedness programs, reflecting a nationwide trend where police officers are often first on scene before paramedics arrive. The department’s use of body-worn cameras not only provides transparency but also offers valuable training material for emergency response techniques.
As Officer Cerpa continues his early career with the NYPD, his repeated heroism serves as a reminder of the unpredictable and critical nature of police work. The department encourages residents to remain vigilant and to call 911 immediately in emergencies, trusting that officers like Cerpa and Ficken are ready to respond with skill and compassion.
For more information on choking prevention and emergency response, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration offers resources on child safety, while the NYPD official website provides updates on community safety initiatives and training programs.
In a city where moments can mean everything, the bravery and readiness of officers like Freddy Cerpa and Megan Ficken continue to save lives and strengthen community trust.
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