This footage was filmed and produced 16 February 2024.

[WARNING: sensitive content]

In a heartwarming display of heroism, two officers from the Austin Police Department are being praised for their quick thinking and bravery in saving a young boy from choking.

Officer Dalton Schroeder and Officer Jason Wright responded to a distress call about a 4-year-old boy choking on candy at the Menlo at Mueller Apartments in northeast Austin. The incident occurred on Friday, Feb. 16, around 4:30 p.m.

On Wednesday, the young boy, named William, and his grateful mother were reunited with the officers who came to their rescue. The officers presented William with some toys as a token of their appreciation for his bravery.

William’s mother, Guadalupe Romero, shared the terrifying moments leading up to the officers’ arrival. “I just panicked myself to like, ‘Oh my gosh,’” she said. “And then I start seeing his lips start getting purple and he's trying to lay down and close his eyes. And I'm like, ‘No, no, no, no, no.’”

Upon their arrival, Officer Schroeder wasted no time in using his personal anti-choking device, the LifeVac, to dislodge the candy from William’s throat. The body camera video released by the police department shows the emotional moment when William is able to breathe normally again and gives the officer a thumbs up, high five, and a hug.

The Austin Police Department released a statement commending the officers for their swift and effective action, stating, “The outstanding work done by Officer Schroeder and Officer Wright successfully saved the life of a young child. APD commends both officers on their swift and effective action.”