A 13-year-old boy with autism is recovering after Newark lifeguards pulled him from a pool during a seizure, with officials praising their fast response that helped avert tragedy.
WEBDESK – HAJIRA IRFAN – NJNEWSLINE
Seconds Made the Difference in Newark Pool Rescue
What began as a normal morning swim at a Newark recreation center turned into a race against time when a 13-year-old boy suffered a seizure in the water. Thanks to the quick thinking of lifeguards and recreation staff, the frightening incident ended with the child receiving emergency care instead of becoming a tragedy.
The medical emergency unfolded shortly before 10 a.m. on Thursday at Saint Peter’s Park Recreation Center on Lyons Avenue, where the non-verbal teenager with autism was swimming when he suddenly experienced a seizure.
Lifeguards Reacted Without Hesitation
Witnessing the child in distress, trained lifeguards and recreation center employees immediately jumped into action.
According to Newark Public Safety Director Emanuel Miranda, staff members quickly removed the boy from the pool and began life-saving measures while emergency medical responders were on their way.
Their rapid response ensured the child was no longer in immediate danger before paramedics arrived, demonstrating the critical role trained lifeguards play during unexpected emergencies.
Teen Transported to Hospital After Emergency
Officials said the teenager was alert and breathing after receiving emergency assistance at the recreation center.
He was later transported to Newark Beth Israel Medical Center for additional medical evaluation and treatment.
Authorities have not released further information about his condition, and no additional medical details have been made public.
City Officials Praise the Rescue Team
Following the incident, Newark officials praised the lifeguards and recreation staff for remaining calm under pressure and responding exactly as they had been trained.
Their actions prevented what could have become a devastating drowning and highlighted the importance of maintaining skilled personnel at public swimming facilities, especially during the busy summer season.
The rescue also serves as a reminder that medical emergencies can happen without warning, even when people are simply enjoying recreational activities.
Training and Teamwork Proved Critical
Seizures that occur in or near water can quickly become life-threatening if immediate action is not taken. In this case, the coordinated response by lifeguards and recreation staff gave the teenager the best possible chance before medical professionals arrived.
Experts have long emphasized that rapid intervention during water-related emergencies significantly improves survival and recovery outcomes. Incidents like this reinforce why certified lifeguards are an essential safety measure at community pools.
The successful rescue has drawn praise from the community and underscores the value of emergency preparedness, teamwork and professional training.
A Rescue That Ended in Hope
For one Newark family, a routine visit to the pool could have ended in unimaginable loss. Instead, because trained lifeguards recognized the emergency and acted within moments, a 13-year-old boy was safely pulled from the water and rushed to medical care. Their calm, decisive response transformed a frightening situation into a powerful reminder that preparation, vigilance and quick action can save lives.
