Turin, June 21, 2026 – A dramatic incident unfolded on an Italo train traveling from Naples Central to Turin on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, when a 32-year-old woman from Turin risked choking on a brioche. Her life was saved by an off-duty railway police superintendent who was also on board the same train.
Quick Intervention by Off-Duty Officer
The incident occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, June 16. The woman was traveling with her 33-year-old husband and their five-month-old son when she began to choke. Her husband’s cries for help alerted the off-duty officer, who immediately assessed the situation. The woman was unable to speak or breathe, her lips were turning blue, and she was losing consciousness.
The superintendent, whose name has not been released, promptly began administering the Heimlich maneuver. He continued the life-saving procedure even after the woman lost consciousness, successfully dislodging the obstruction from her airway and allowing her to regain consciousness. During the critical moments, another passenger alerted emergency services.
Refusal of Immediate Medical Assistance and Subsequent Hospitalization
Initially, the woman declined an ambulance, wishing to continue her journey without delay. The police superintendent remained with the family until the train reached Milan, closely monitoring her condition. As the train approached Turin, the woman eventually agreed to be examined by medical personnel upon arrival.
The superintendent then contacted his colleagues at the operational center of Porta Nuova station, requesting medical assistance. Upon arrival in Turin, she was transported to Gradenigo Hospital as a precautionary measure for further checks. The swift and decisive action of the off-duty officer prevented a potentially fatal outcome.
Context of Similar Incidents
This incident highlights the importance of knowing first aid techniques, particularly the Heimlich maneuver, which has proven crucial in similar choking emergencies. TorinoToday has reported on several such cases in the past:
- A man choking in a Susa restaurant was saved by his nephew, who followed instructions from the 118 emergency call center over the phone.
- An 11-year-old boy in Piscina was saved by his teacher after choking on a bite at school.
- Public events in Turin, such as ‘A maneuver for life,’ have been organized to teach citizens how to save children from choking on foreign objects.
These events underscore the recurring nature of choking incidents and the vital role that immediate, informed intervention plays in saving lives. The police superintendent’s actions serve as a testament to the fact that even when off-duty, public servants remain committed to protecting the community.
The incident has been widely reported by local news outlets, commending the officer’s bravery and quick thinking. The family has expressed profound gratitude for his intervention, which allowed them to avoid a tragic loss.
Further details regarding the woman’s condition after being transported to Gradenigo Hospital have not been released, but it is understood that she is recovering well thanks to the timely assistance she received.
