A dramatic welfare check in East Austin turned into a life-saving rescue when two officers used swift action and a personal device to save a young boy struggling to breathe.
Two Austin police officers are being praised for their decisive actions after saving a 4-year-old boy who was choking inside an East Austin apartment complex.
On Friday, Officers Dalton Schroeder and Jason Wright responded to an urgent welfare check at the Menlo at Mueller Apartments. Family members at the scene told them that young William Martinez Romero was choking and unable to breathe.
Body camera footage released by the Austin Police Department shows Schroeder quickly retrieving an anti-choking device he had personally purchased for emergencies. Meanwhile, Wright delivered back blows to the child. Together, their coordinated efforts dislodged the obstruction, allowing William to breathe again.
Officers’ Swift Response Praised
In a statement, the Austin Police Department commended both officers for their quick and effective actions, noting that their teamwork successfully saved the child’s life.
William’s mother, Guadalupe Romero, expressed deep gratitude during a press conference held the following Wednesday. “It makes me sad and thankful with these two officers that got there really fast and that my son is still with me,” she said.
Doctors later determined that William had choked on his own saliva, not candy as initially suspected.
The emotional moment was capped by William giving Officer Schroeder a heartfelt hug during their reunion, a gesture that underscored the impact of the officers’ intervention.
The department emphasized that Schroeder’s decision to carry the anti-choking device and Wright’s immediate support exemplified the dedication of officers to protect and serve the community.
