115th Precinct Heroes: Officers Save 10-Month-Old Stopping to Breathe

A 911 call, a panicked family, and two heroes. Read how NYPD officers turned a potential tragedy into a celebration of life and police dedication.

by Admin

Nov 28, 2025

For any parent, the silence of a baby monitor can be comforting, but seeing a child in distress is a nightmare. In Richmond Hill, Queens, a quiet afternoon nap turned into a life-or-death emergency for one family. Thanks to the swift arrival and cool heads of two officers from the 115th Precinct, a terrifying ordeal ended in tears of relief and a life saved.

The Incident: A Nap Turns into a Nightmare

On October 10, 2025, Asia Rodriguez and Brandon Laboy were at home with their 10-month-old son, Makai. Like many first-time parents, they were vigilant. Asia was watching the baby monitor when she saw Makai throw up during his nap and begin to choke. The infant couldn't breathe. Panic set in immediately as the family realized their baby was in grave danger.

They called 911, screaming for help. "He’s my life and I’m going to make sure every second counts and make sure I save him," Asia later recalled. The minutes felt like hours as the family tried to help the struggling boy. They needed a miracle, and it arrived in the form of a patrol car from the NYPD.

The Response: Calm, Quick, and Capable

Officers Botirjon Botirov and Gabriel Gonzalez were on patrol when the call came in. Despite being "rookies" with less than two years on the force, their police department training kicked in instantly. They arrived at the apartment on 37th Avenue to find a chaotic scene.

Body-worn camera footage captures the intense moment. Officer Botirov immediately took the baby from a frantic family member. He didn't hesitate. He turned little Makai over and began administering vigorous back blows to dislodge the obstruction.

In a twist of fate, Makai was wearing white pajamas covered in little police cars and fire trucks. As Botirov worked, the police intervention proved critical. After more than a dozen firm pats, the obstruction cleared. Makai let out a cry, the most beautiful sound his parents had ever heard. He was breathing again.

"It's just incredible with the right training, and what they're doing, they saved his life. In those moments, you can't understate how good the training that they had is." — Brandon Laboy, Father.

The Outcome & Broader Perspective

Once Makai was breathing, the officers didn't just leave. They stayed to comfort the infant and the shaken parents until EMS arrived. The baby was taken to Elmhurst Hospital for observation and released back home, healthy and safe. This rescue highlights the vital role of police emergency services in our communities. It wasn't about fighting crime; it was about preserving life.

The parents were overwhelmed with gratitude. "If I could see them... I would hug them," Asia said. This story is a shining example of good cop stories that often go untold. It reminds us that behind the badge are people dedicated to helping their neighbors survive their worst days.

A Final Thought

The rescue of baby Makai is a powerful testament to police dedication. Officers Botirov and Gonzalez turned a potential tragedy into a moment of hope, proving that cops are heroes who stand ready to protect the most vulnerable among us. Their actions built a bridge of trust that will last a lifetime for this Queens family.

Check out more such stories on our stories page.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the standard police training requirements for medical emergencies?

Most law enforcement agencies, including the NYPD, have strict nypd training requirements that include First Aid and CPR certification. Officers are often the first on the scene of a medical emergency, so they must be prepared to stabilize victims before ambulances arrive. This training is updated regularly to ensure officers can handle situations like choking, cardiac arrest, or severe bleeding.

2. How often do police officers perform humanitarian work?

While crime fighting captures the headlines, police humanitarian work is a daily occurrence. Officers frequently assist with mental health crises, help stranded motorists, and check on the welfare of elderly residents. This service-oriented approach is central to modern policing and helps build stronger, safer communities.

3. Why is police public relations important for community safety?

Effective police public relations fosters trust between law enforcement and the public. When the community trusts the police, they are more likely to report crimes, cooperate with investigations, and view officers as partners. Sharing positive police stories helps balance the narrative and highlights the essential service officers provide.

4. What should I do if an infant is choking?

If an infant is choking and cannot breathe, you should have someone call 911 immediately while you begin first aid. The standard procedure often involves back blows and chest thrusts. As seen in police medical aid training, quick action is vital. Parents are encouraged to take certified CPR classes to be prepared for such emergencies.

5. How can I find positive news about the NYPD?

You can find pro police news and updates on officer achievements through various channels. Following specific precinct social media accounts, like the NYPD 115 pct Twitter, or reading the NYPD daily news sections, can provide insights into the daily acts of heroism performed by Queens' finest and other officers across the city.

6. Do all police officers carry medical equipment?

While not every officer carries a full paramedic kit, most patrol units are equipped with basic First Aid kits, naloxone (Narcan) for overdoses, and sometimes automated external defibrillators (AEDs). This gear allows for immediate police actions that can sustain life during the critical minutes before paramedics arrive.

7. How can the public show police officer appreciation?

Community members can show police officers appreciation in many ways, from a simple "thank you" to writing letters of commendation to the department. Supporting organizations that back law enforcement and sharing NYPD's finest stories on social media also helps boost morale and shows officers that their police service is valued.

8. What defines the duty of a police officer?

Police officer duty extends far beyond making arrests. It encompasses a commitment of police to serve and protect every member of the community. Whether it is a high-risk rescue or a simple act of police kindness, the core mission is to ensure the safety and well-being of the public they serve.