Orange Police Officer Recognized After Saving Choking Infant

A quick response and calm action by an Orange police officer helped save the life of a 7-month-old baby who was choking, turning a frightening moment into a story of relief and gratitude for a local family.

The incident occurred when officers from the Orange Police Department responded to an emergency call involving an infant who had stopped breathing after choking on a hair clip. Corporal Greggory Cates arrived on scene and immediately took action, performing lifesaving measures to clear the baby’s airway.

Within moments, the infant began breathing again. The child was later transported to a hospital for further evaluation and was reported to be doing well. Body-worn camera footage captured the urgency of the situation and the emotional relief that followed once the baby began to breathe.

In recognition of his actions, Corporal Cates was honored during a City of Orange City Council meeting, where he received a Life Saving Medal. The ceremony also reunited the officer with the family, marking a powerful moment of thanks and reflection.

City officials praised the officer’s training, composure, and compassion, noting that seconds matter in situations like these. Cates later shared that his focus during the call was simply on helping the family through an unimaginable moment.

For many in Orange, the rescue serves as a reminder of the critical role first responders play every day — often in moments the public never sees. It also highlights how preparation, quick thinking, and care can make a life-changing difference when it matters most.

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