Orange County School Security Officer Saves Choking Child

Newburgh Elementary Security Officer Saves Choking Student

A Newburgh Enlarged City School District security officer is being hailed a hero after saving a student who was choking.

CBS News reports that a 1st grade student was in the cafeteria, eating, when they became distressed. That's when the Vails Gate STEM Academy security officer Tyreek Johnson jumped into action.

Johnson performed the Heimlich Maneuver to clear the students airways. The save was all caught on camera, take a look below:

The student was later taken to the school nurses office for evaluation.

This is Tyreek Johnson's 2nd Time Save a Students Life

This isn't the first time that Johnson has jumped into action to save a child.

According to a press release from the Newburgh Enlarged School District from back in 2023, Johnson was in a similar situation.

In the press release they write:

Mr. Tyreek Johnson, was recognized for his heroics in saving the life of a choking second grader. Mr. Johnson witnessed the young student struggling to breath and when he saw her do the universal sign for choking, he immediately sprung into action.

Just like in the latest incident, Johnson used the Heimlich Maneuver to dislodge the food out of the student's throat.

The statement goes on to say that Johnson "cited the training he received from the Newburgh Enlarged City School District for his ability to remain calm and poised under the serious circumstances."

READ MORE: Amazing Response Saves Choking Student at Dutchess County School

Thankfully, there were no injuries and the student was doing well after the traumatic event.

The Newburgh Enlarged School District states that all Security Monitors are trained in "Basic Life Saver First Aid" and are also CPR and AED Certified.

Where Can You Find Heimlich Maneuver Training in the Hudson Valley?

Moments like these server as a reminder that choking can happen at any moment, especially with children.

If you're interested in learning more about how to properly perform the Heimlich Maneuver and CPR there are classes and training sessions available across the region.

The American Red Cross is a great resource as they have lists of Adult CPR and First Aid classes that are not only in person but also on line.

Check out RedCross.org for more information.