Springfield Officers Save Choking Baby's Life

SPRINGFIELD, MA — The life of a three-month-old baby who was choking in her car seat was saved Monday when two police officers sprung into action, the Springfield police department reported.

The baby's mother was driving when she noticed the baby choking. Officers Christopher Charles and Luis Rodriguez saw the mother pull over and jump out of the car crying for help.

The officers "immediately ran to the vehicle and they found a three-month-old infant girl to be pale, choking, gasping for air," Springfield Police Superintendent Cheryl Clapprood said.

While Officer Rodriguez called for an ambulance, Officer Charles placed the baby facedown on his forearm and patted her back. The baby's airway was cleared and she responded shortly by crying.

Both officers had recently graduated from the Springfield Police Academy.

"I have a very good partner beside me," Rodriguez said, crediting Charles with the rescue.

Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno thanked both officers. "This baby is alive because of Officer Charles and Officer Rodriguez’s efforts," Sarno said.