Off-duty NJ trooper saves choking man, heroics caught on camera

ROCKAWAY TWP — Trooper Dennis Palaia thought he was going to the local Buffalo Wild Wings with his son on Sunday for a relaxing day of watching football.

But he was called on to save another patron who was choking at a nearby table.

According to the New Jersey State Police, Palaia, who works with the Troop "B" Tactical Patrol Unit, noticed the man was in distress and "rushed to the man, who was showing signs that he could not breathe."

Using his training, Palaia started the Heimlich Maneuver and was able to clear the man's airway, State Police said. The man, according to police, was then able to breathe on his own again and thanked the trooper for his help, reporting only a sore throat and some aching ribs.

"We are pleased to report that the man made a full recovery and is eternally grateful to Trooper Palaia, whose quick and decisive actions undoubtedly prevented a tragedy," State Police wrote.