Police Officers Save Choking 4-Year-Old Using A Special Device

March 11, 2024

Today's good news story comes from Austin, Texas.

Two police officers are being lauded as heroes for their prompt response that saved a 4-year-old boy from a life-threatening situation.

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Austin Police Department

On Friday, February 16, around 4:30 p.m., Officer Dalton Schroeder and Officer Jason Wright rushed to the Menlo at Mueller Apartments in northeast Austin after receiving a distress call about a young child choking on candy. The child's mother, Guadalupe Romero, recounted the terrifying moments when her son, William, began showing signs of distress.

"I just panicked myself, like, 'Oh my gosh'," Romero expressed. "And then I start seeing his lips start getting purple, and he's trying to lay down and close his eyes. And I'm like, 'No, no, no, no, no'."

Upon arrival at the scene, Officer Schroeder swiftly took charge of the situation, utilizing his personal anti-choking device, known as LifeVac. The device, acting like a plunger, proved instrumental in dislodging the obstructing candy and restoring the young boy's ability to breathe.

In a gesture capturing the essence of the rescue, the Austin Police Department released body camera footage of the incident. In the video, the tense moments are palpable, but the atmosphere transforms into one of pure joy and relief as little William starts breathing normally again.

The heartening conclusion to this near-tragedy is made even more touching by William's grateful response to Officer Schroeder. The 4-year-old extends a thumbs up, a high five, and a heartfelt hug to the officer, showcasing the immediate bond formed between law enforcement and the community they serve.

Watch the police bodycam footage below.