Port Authority Police Officer Brian Monacelli was enjoying a Sunday with his family at Seven Presidents Beach in Long Branch, New Jersey, when he heard a woman screaming, “My child is dying, my child is dying!”
Officer Monacelli immediately responded and found a young girl, approximately 4 or 5 years old, unresponsive, not breathing and turning blue. He assessed the child and realized she was choking. Surrounded by panicked family members, he took control of the situation and began performing the Heimlich maneuver. After repeated thrusts, he heard a “pop,” and the child began crying, “Mommy, Mommy,” after the obstruction was removed from her throat.
Long Branch Police and EMS responded and continued care. The child was transported to a hospital and was reported to be in satisfactory condition.
Great job, Police Officer Monacelli!
Port Authority police officers receive a high level of lifesaving training and are sworn to act in critical incidents. Officer Monacelli’s off-duty actions are another example of the commitment and dedication of Port Authority police officers.