Today we recognize John from SweetGuy Ice Cream Truck for his quick actions that helped reunite a missing child with his family.

Full story from John:
*“15 years in the ice cream truck has taught me to ALWAYS be on the lookout for kids in the road. Never did I think that would be tested the way it was tonight.

Around 8:30 p.m. on Route 9W, I saw something no one wants to see—a barefoot 2-year-old in a diaper, alone and running down the side of the road. I was terrified, but it was clear the little boy was even more scared.

I quickly pulled the truck across the road to block traffic and ran after him—forgot how fast those little legs can move! When I caught up, I found he was nonverbal and immediately called the Haverstraw Police Department.

Thank you to HPD for your quick response. They were able to reunite the boy with his father before I left. I’m just so grateful I was there. Not only did my experience help me notice him in time, but sadly, not a single other car stopped. Dozens of people drove past a clearly dangerous situation. I don’t even think anyone else called 911—HPD said mine was the first they heard of it.

It felt like an eternity between jumping out of the truck and getting help, but in the end, I’m just thankful that boy is safe.”*

Thank you, John, for your courage, quick thinking, and for always keeping kids’ safety top of mind—even after your shift is over. You’re a true hometown hero.