STERLING HEIGHTS, Mich. – On Nov. 1, Sterling Heights police officer Edwar Talia rushed to save a choking baby at a Walmart, dramatic bodycam footage shows.
The officer’s calm under pressure made all the difference in the life-threatening situation. Many are calling him a hero, but Talia says he was just doing his job.
The incident happened when a mother’s 5-month-old baby, Jameson, stopped breathing inside the store. Officer Talia was already on scene working a special detail when the emergency unfolded.
“The baby was just not responsive. His eyes were closed, so definitely that was a clue for me to flip him over and start giving him back blows,” Talia said.
The baby was choking on breast milk.
“I don’t know if it went down the wrong tube, or whatever the case may be, but obviously they’re infants, they don’t know how to cough it out or swallow it in,” Talia said.
Using his training, Talia kept working until the baby finally cleared his airway.
“It was so long, yet when I watched the body camera, it was so quick,” Talia said.
Talia wasn’t alone in helping. People nearby jumped in to assist, all in the right place at the right time to save baby Jameson.
“It feels great. It definitely feels great. It’s by far the greatest moment ever,” Talia said.
Jameson’s mother says her baby is doing great and extends her deepest gratitude to everyone who helped that day.