JAMAICA, Queens (WABC) — A Port Authority police officer saved the life of a choking toddler.
It happened on January 5th at 6:17 p.m. at JFK Airport.
Port Authority Police Officer Elijah Ali was on patrol when a frantic mom flagged him down outside Terminal 4.
Her 2-year-old son was choking on a lollipop in the back seat of their car.
“I hopped out of my car and ran to his window and told him my son was choking. He ran straight to my car and to my son,” said Jennifer, the child’s mother.
She had been driving to pick up her husband when the terrifying moment happened. “I am incredibly grateful,” the first-time mom said.
Officer Ali didn’t waste a second. He jumped into action, performing quick back blows between the toddler’s shoulder blades.
Within moments, the obstruction was cleared, and the little boy could breathe again.
Emergency Medical Services arrived soon after, but thankfully, no further treatment was needed.
Dad, who was just arriving at the airport, was equally thankful for the officer’s fast response.
With three years on the job, Officer Ali is no stranger to saving lives, he’s previously revived two overdose victims using Narcan.
“The commitment to serving and helping others is the reason I chose this profession and it’s what brings me the greatest sense of fulfillment,” he said.
The Port Authority said, “Our officers train for the unexpected, and Officer Ali’s actions show that they are always ready to step in and help-no matter the nature of the threat-when seconds matter most.”
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