NEWARK, NJ – Newark Public Safety Director Brian A. O’Hara reports that members of the Newark Fire Division saved the life of a North Ward woman suffering from breathing problems on Friday, July 9, 2021.
“I commend the firefighters who responded professionally and immediately rendered the essential, life-saving aid desperately needed on behalf of a Newark resident,” Director O’Hara said. “Mayor Baraka and I are thankful our residents can depend on the quick-thinking actions of Newark firefighters to avert a potential family and community tragedy.”
Firefighters located Gertrudis Rodriguez, 67, who required medical assistance due to suffering severe breathing distress in the 700 block of North 6th Street, on the same block as the neighborhood firehouse. Responding firefighters immediately administered oxygen, stabilizing Mrs. Rodriguez, until EMS arrived and transported her to an area hospital for further treatment.
“I am grateful that the Newark Firefighters were able to respond so quickly and that they saved my mother’s life,” said Hector Rodriguez, the victim’s son and a retired Newark Police Detective.