Editor’s note: This announcement was provided by the Town of Pelham. The Pelham Examiner publishes announcements in the form received as a service to the community.

On Saturday, April 12th, the Pelham Manor Fire Department, Pelham Manor Police Department, and Pelham Fire Department responded to a report of a possible dryer fire in Pelham Manor. Pelham EMS unit 38Medic1 responded in a non-emergency capacity to provide support if needed.

Shortly after the fire was brought under control, Captain John Gerken of the Pelham Manor Fire Department suffered a sudden medical emergency and collapsed. Chief Robert Benkwitt immediately alerted 38Medic1 (Paramedic Michael Baumblatt) and requested an ambulance through 60-Control.

Captain Gerken was quickly determined to be in cardiac arrest. Paramedic Baumblatt immediately initiated CPR and began removing Captain Gerken’s firefighting gear, assisted by members of the Pelham Manor Fire Department, Pelham Manor Police Department, and Pelham Fire Department. Paramedic Baumblatt delivered one defibrillation using the ZOLL cardiac monitor and the team continued CPR. Once on-scene, Paramedic Samjo Samson initiated IV therapy, administered medications, and delivered a second defibrillation, while EMT Samuel Kupferberg and fire personnel continued providing high-quality CPR.

Thanks to the exceptional teamwork, rapid response, and coordinated life-saving efforts of all involved, Captain John Gerken was successfully resuscitated and gradually regained consciousness. He was stabilized, carefully packaged, and transported without incident to Montefiore New Rochelle Hospital.

There is no doubt that the swift, skilled, and coordinated actions of these first responders were instrumental in saving Captain Gerken’s life.

With deep gratitude and admiration, the Town of Pelham proudly recognizes the following individuals for their exemplary life-saving efforts:

Pelham/EVAC:

• Paramedic Michael Baumblatt
• Paramedic Samjo Samson
• EMT Samuel Kupferberg

Pelham Manor Fire Department:

• Chief Michael Greco
• Firefighter Daniel Higgins
• Firefighter Alex Ruggiero

Pelham Fire Department:

• Chief Robert Benkwitt III
• Lieutenant Tim Frusciante
• Firefighter Shane MacDonald
• Firefighter Michael Leak
• Firefighter Andrew Camaradella

Pelham Manor Police Department:

• Sergeant David Uyeki
• Police Officer Nicholas Manias
• Police Officer Jesus Oceguera
• Police Officer Brandon Lustig

Please join the Town of Pelham, the Town of Pelham EMS and Zoll Medical in recognizing and commending these members for their skilled response, dedication, professionalism.

June 2, 2025 at 630pm

Pelham Town House- 20 5th Ave, Pelham NY

Family and friends welcome.