New York City, NY — A dramatic roadside rescue during the height of Wednesday morning rush hour is drawing widespread praise after a hero NYPD detective saved a choking infant on the side of a busy parkway — an act caught in a heart-stopping video now circulating across social media.
Detective Spots Speeding Vehicle on Parkway Shoulder
According to police, Detective First Grade Michael Greaney, a 17-year NYPD veteran assigned to the office of Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny, was driving to work around 8:45 a.m. when he noticed a black BMW racing along the emergency shoulder of the southbound Bronx River Parkway.
The behavior immediately raised alarms, prompting the detective — who was behind the wheel of an unmarked NYPD truck — to activate his lights and pull the vehicle over to investigate.
“My Baby’s Choking”: A Terrified Father Pleads for Help
When Greaney approached the car, he found a panicked father who desperately informed him, “My baby’s choking.”
The detective instantly switched from investigator to lifesaver.
Footage later shared on TikTok shows Greaney reaching into the backseat and gently lifting the infant — a tiny girl dressed in a pink onesie — from the vehicle before rushing to the side of the roadway.
Quick, Skilled Action Clears the Baby’s Airway
Standing just feet from passing traffic, Greaney carefully positioned the infant face-down along his arm and administered firm, controlled back blows — a move consistent with infant choking first-aid protocols.
Within seconds, the baby’s airway cleared.
The toddler began breathing normally again, police said, ending what could have been a devastating tragedy.
A Pediatrician Arrives at the Perfect Moment
As the scene unfolded, a good Samaritan pediatrician happened to be driving by. Noticing the commotion, the doctor pulled over to assist.
The pediatric specialist checked the infant’s breathing, color, and responsiveness, ultimately confirming that the baby was stable and safe following the detective’s intervention.
The relieved father later contacted authorities to verify that his daughter continued to do very well following the ordeal.
A Detective with Nearly Two Decades of Service
Records show that Detective Greaney joined the NYPD in July 2008, and has served the department with distinction for 17 years.
Colleagues say the incident exemplifies both his skill and commitment.
Scott Munro, President of the Detectives’ Endowment Association, praised the detective’s actions, stating:
“Detective Greaney’s split-second decision and calm under pressure truly embodies The Greatest Detectives in the World. His quick action didn’t just save a life — it reminded all of us what heroism looks like on the streets of this city.”
A Viral Reminder of the Power of Swift Action
The video, now widely shared on social media platforms, has generated an outpouring of gratitude toward both the detective and the bystander pediatrician. Many viewers have commented that watching the rescue unfold left them shaken — and immensely thankful — for the officer’s presence at that exact moment.
Authorities emphasize that the father’s rapid response, coupled with Detective Greaney’s decisive actions, made all the difference.
What’s Your Reaction?
How do you feel about this dramatic rescue on the Bronx River Parkway? Do you think enough people know proper first-aid techniques for choking infants?
Share your thoughts, praise, and reactions in the comments below!
