New Jersey police chief was on vacation. Then he saw a girl drowning

🚨Riverdale's Police Chief rescued an 11-year-old girl from drowning in Florida

🚨Charles Quant pulled the unresponsive girl from the water and performed CPR

🚨A Florida police chief and NJ law enforcement leaders praised his actions

RIVERDALE — A New Jersey police chief is being called a hero after rescuing a girl from drowning while he was on vacation in Florida.

Riverdale Police Chief Charles Quant was on vacation in Holmes Beach, Florida, on July 25 when he saw an 11-year-old girl drowning and completely unresponsive in the water.

Riverdale Mayor Paul Carelli shared a letter from Holmes Beach Police Chief William Tokajer describing Quant's heroics in the Florida town just south of Tampa.

According to Carelli, Quant ran into the water, pulled the girl from the water and began administering CPR. She coughed up the water she had taken in and started breathing on her own before first responders arrived.

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Letter from Holmes Beach, Florida Police Chief William Tokajer describing Riverdale Police Chief Charles Quant's heroics action on July 25, 2026

Off-duty New Jersey chief didn't hesitate

"His readiness to respond to a crisis, even when off-duty and far from home, speaks volumes about his character, dedication and professionalism," Carelli wrote. "He is a true credit to the Borough of Riverdale and an outstanding leader for your police department."

New Jersey PBA President Peter Andreyev told New Jersey 101.5 that Quant's actions demonstrated the "character and commitment" expected from New Jersey police officers whether they are on duty or off.

"He didn't hesitate for a moment when he saw somebody in danger in the waters off of Holmes Beach," Andreyev said. "He entered the water, he swam out to her, he saved her, brought her in, did CPR. All his training kicked in. And that's why I say New Jersey's police officers are some of the best trained in the nation."

Quant has led Riverdale police since 2023

Quant was promoted to police chief in 2023 and has been with the department since 2003 after his graduation from the Morris County Police Academy.

He rose through the ranks to become a sergeant in 2014 and a lieutenant in 2020.

MADD recognized him four years in a row with its MADD Law Enforcement Recognition Awards in 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2014.

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