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Bergen County commissioners commend Ridgefield first responders for May 14 crash rescue
Summary
At a Bergen County Board of Commissioners meeting, officials presented commendations to Ridgefield first responders — including Lieutenant Matthew Bonaguero and Officer Fati Karabeek — for removing an unresponsive man from a vehicle and providing life-saving aid after a May 14 crash.
Bergen County commissioners presented certificates of commendation Tuesday to Ridgefield first responders who helped save a life after a serious crash on May 14.
At the county commissioners meeting held at the Bergen County Justice Center, Chairwoman Amoruso introduced Lieutenant Matthew Bonaguero of the Ridgefield Fire Department and Ridgefield Police Officer Fati Karabeek and said the two, along with others, removed an unresponsive man from a vehicle and used an automated external defibrillator (AED) and other life‑saving measures.
The recognition noted that Lieutenant Bonaguero and Officer Karabeek were off duty when they encountered the crash on Grand Avenue and rendered immediate aid. Battalion Chief Perry Buonagaro, Deputy Chief Scott Russo, Department Chief Gary Bonacci and Deputy Chief Ken Sheridan were present at the meeting to acknowledge the honorees.
"If you save a life, you've saved an entire universe," Chairwoman Amoruso said, praising the responders’ training and readiness.
Several commissioners and the Ridgefield mayor also publicly thanked the first responders for their actions and for the day‑to‑day service they provide. Commissioner Joan Voss noted the value of training programs and described local outreach efforts such as academy demonstrations for children with disabilities. Mayor Hugo said Ridgefield officials strive to fully support police and fire personnel and thanked the honorees for acting without hesitation.
The commissioners brought the honorees forward for formal presentation of certificates during the meeting. The recognition was ceremonial; no formal policy or budget action was taken during the presentation.
The board also observed moments of silence earlier in the meeting for Coach Rob Violante of Bergenfield High School and former Freeholder Commissioner David L. Gantz, both noted by commissioners for their community contributions.
