‘A Shocking Moment’: 7-Year-Old Steps Up and Saves Classmate During Emergency

May 8, 2026

A second grader in Rhode Island is being celebrated as a real-life hero after using a skill he learned in school to save a choking classmate during snack time.

Sameer Santana / Credit: WPRI

Seven-year-old Sameer Santana was sitting with classmates at Stephen Olney Elementary School on April 9 when he noticed another student, Jabril, was in trouble.

“I saw him choking,” Sameer recalled.

As the classroom teacher moved to call for help and calm the students, Sameer reacted instantly. The first grader rushed over and performed the Heimlich maneuver, something he had learned the year before in kindergarten health class.

“And then I came and ran and did the Heimlich,” Sameer said.

Moments later, the apple slice lodged in Jabril’s throat was dislodged.

What makes the story even more remarkable is Sameer’s age. His mother, Ciara Santana, said she was stunned by what her son was able to do under pressure.

“As a 7-year-old, I don't really expect for him to know something like that,” she said. “So for me, it was a shocking moment. There was really no words.”

This week, the young hero was honored by the town of North Providence during a special celebration attended by firefighters, police officers, classmates, and local leaders.

First responders presented Sameer with a Citizen’s Award and even named him honorary rescue captain for the day. The town also issued an official proclamation recognizing his bravery.

“We're just super proud of Sameer and the initiative he took and kind of helping that situation out,” principal Stephen Pacitto said. “We're thankful for him.”