Heart-Stopping: Monsey First Responder Saves Stranger’s Life 30,000 Feet Above the Ocean
A Monsey Spring Hill EMS and Hatzolah volunteer became a hero at 30,000 feet when he sprang into action to save a passenger’s life during a medical emergency on a flight from Ecuador to New York, a powerful Kiddush Hashem in the skies.
A passenger from Ecuador to New York became seriously ill midair.
Alter Hoffman (SH-77), a Monsey resident and dedicated volunteer with Spring Hill EMS, along with his roles in Riverdale Hatzolah (RD-41) and as a line officer with the Monsey Fire Department (7-10), stepped forward to provide critical assistance. He stabilized the passenger during the remainder of the flight, helping ensure a safe outcome.
Community outlets like Rockland Daily and Monsey Scoop highlighted the incident as a powerful Kiddush Hashem, praising Hoffman’s quick response and professionalism at altitude. No diversion was needed, and the passenger received care upon landing in New York.
This reflects the ongoing commitment of Hatzolah and volunteer EMS members from the Rockland County community, who often assist in unexpected emergencies, on the ground or in the skies.