Acton Police Officer Stephen McCarthy Presented with Lifesaving Award

ACTON — Officer Stephen McCarthy stood tall before the Select Board Monday night as Interim Police Chief Douglas Sturniolo presented him with a Lifesaving Award for helping a choking resident.

On Wednesday, April 8, Officer McCarthy was working his regular 3 to 11 p.m. shift, and was conducting a motor vehicle stop on Great Road, when he overheard dispatchers sending other officers to a home on Parkland Lane where a man was choking. 

Realizing he was closer than anyone else, Officer McCarthy ended the motor vehicle stop and immediately responded to Parkland Drive. 

Officer McCarthy found the 911 caller’s front door open. Officer McCarthy entered and located a 72-year-old man seated in a chair who was gasping for air and unable to speak. A family member shared that the man was choking on a piece of steak. 

Officer McCarthy immediately assisted the victim to his feet and administered the Heimlich maneuver. After several attempts, the victim began breathing and coughing, indicating the obstruction had been cleared. Officer McCarthy then seated the victim and monitored his condition until fire and ambulance personnel arrived and assumed care.

On Monday, Officer McCarthy was presented with a Lifesaving Award at the start of the Select Board meeting at Town Hall. He was joined by his family and several fellow officers. 

“While we train for emergencies, it is an officer’s character that dictates how they respond when seconds count,” said Interim Chief Douglas Sturniolo. “Officer McCarthy didn’t wait to be told what to do; he immediately cleared from his motor vehicle stop and acted to save a resident in need. His initiative speaks volumes about his character and his dedication to this community, and I am proud to recognize his actions.”

“I appreciate that Officer McCarthy jumped into action and demonstrated how first responders in Acton go above and beyond to serve our community,” said Town Manager John Mangiaratti.