06/03/2026
On the evening of May 4, 2026, the New Sewickley Fire District, Economy Ambulance, and New Sewickley Township Police were dispatched for a report of a 1-year-old infant who was unconscious, unresponsive, and lying on the living room floor.
New Sewickley Police officers arrived within minutes and confirmed that the infant was unconscious, unresponsive, and not breathing. Officers quickly determined that the child had an airway obstruction and immediately began lifesaving efforts, including attempts to clear the obstruction using appropriate techniques. Despite their efforts, the obstruction remained in place.
Shortly thereafter, five members of the New Sewickley Fire District Quick Response Service (QRS) arrived on scene. Captain Michael Guraly, who also serves as an EMT with Economy Ambulance, immediately assumed patient care. He continued efforts to clear the airway and, drawing upon his years of EMS experience and training, utilized additional techniques that ultimately succeeded in dislodging the obstruction.
Lieutenant Bo Aleva and Training Officer Michael Hanks assisted Captain Guraly with patient care, while Assistant Chief John Murtha and Firefighter Steve Hedzik supported incoming EMS personnel and gathered critical information from family members.
By the time Economy Ambulance arrived, the infant had resumed breathing and was beginning to regain consciousness. The child was transferred to the care of Economy Ambulance and transported to New Sewickley Fire District 989 Station, where a medical helicopter was waiting. The infant was then flown to Children's Hospital for further treatment.
Without the rapid response, extensive training, and professional skills demonstrated by all responders involved, this incident may not have had the same positive outcome. Today, the infant is alive and well because of the coordinated efforts of the New Sewickley Fire District, New Sewickley Township Police, and Economy Ambulance.
This evening, five members of the New Sewickley Fire District were recognized for their outstanding lifesaving actions that night: Assistant Chief John Murtha, Captain Michael Guraly, Lieutenant Bo Aleva, Training Officer Michael Hanks, and Firefighter Steve Hedzik.
We are proud to recognize these individuals for their role in saving this infant's life. Each member was presented with a Lifesaving Insignia for their uniform, as well as a plaque commemorating their extraordinary service and dedication to the community.