Life-Saving Heimlich Performed by Madison Heights, MI Police

A peaceful dinner at Charlie’s Restaurant on N. Campbell Road took a terrifying turn on April 16, 2026. Around 7:00 pm, an employee made a frantic call to 911. A customer was choking and had started turning purple. 

In a situation where every second counts, the Madison Heights Police Department was dispatched immediately to the scene. The officers knew that their arrival time would be the difference between a tragedy and a recovery.

A Coordinated Life-Saving Effort

Officers Teal, Rivera, Al-Hilfi, and Berlucchi entered the restaurant to find a 72-year-old woman who was unconscious and no longer breathing. The officers quickly lifted her from her seat to begin the rescue. 

Officer Teal and Officer Rivera took turns administering abdominal thrusts, showing the high level of technical skill expected of law enforcement. While they worked to clear her airway, Officer Al-Hilfi and Officer Berlucchi held the woman steady to ensure the maneuvers were as effective as possible.

Training Meets Real-World Bravery

The teamwork displayed by the Madison Heights Police Department was seamless. Because of their persistent efforts, the obstruction was finally dislodged, and the woman began to breathe on her own again. 

Shortly after the airway was cleared, the Madison Heights Fire Department arrived to provide further medical care and transport her to a local hospital. This incident serves as a powerful reminder of how vital it is for our law enforcement to have comprehensive medical readiness to handle any emergency.

A Community United in Gratitude

The woman was discharged from the hospital later that same evening and has since made a full recovery. Though she has asked to remain anonymous, she expressed her deep appreciation for the first responders who saved her life. 

The Madison Heights Police Department continues to receive praise for the dedication shown by these four officers. Their ability to remain calm and focused during a life-or-death crisis highlights the profound impact that well-trained police officers have on the safety of our neighborhoods.

Honoring Our Local Heroes

This rescue is a testament to the human side of policing and the quiet heroism that happens every day. Officers Teal, Rivera, Al-Hilfi, and Berlucchi did not just do their jobs; they gave a family more time with their loved one. 

We are proud to share stories like this that show the heart and soul of the men and women in blue. Please help us celebrate these local heroes by sharing this story with your friends and family. You can also subscribe to our newsletter to receive more updates and explore related police stories.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do police officers receive medical training?

Yes, most police officers in the United States undergo extensive training in basic life support and first aid. This training ensures that they can provide immediate assistance during medical emergencies before paramedics arrive on the scene.

2. Why are police often the first to arrive at medical calls?

Police officers are usually patrolling the streets and are often closer to an incident than an ambulance at a fixed station. Their rapid response capability allows them to begin life-saving measures during the most critical first few minutes.

3. Are police officers trained to perform the Heimlich maneuver?

Law enforcement training programs typically include instruction on how to assist choking victims of all ages. Officers learn how to perform abdominal thrusts and other techniques to clear obstructed airways quickly and safely in high-pressure situations.

4. What other medical procedures can police perform?

Many officers are trained to use Automated External Defibrillators, administer naloxone for overdoses, and apply tourniquets for severe bleeding. These skills are a standard part of modern law enforcement training across the country to improve public safety.

Sources:

• Story and Video Source: Madison Heights Police Department 

• Additional Reporting: Madison Heights police save choking woman at local restaurant | ClickOnDetroit