Montclair honors three officers for life‑saving response to April stabbing

Montclair’s City Council on Monday publicly honored three police officers for life‑saving emergency care they provided after an April 9 assault at a local apartment complex.

Chief Reed told the council that Officers Jesse James, Natalyia Magna and Miguel Hago were first on the scene of what dispatch reported as an assault with a deadly weapon. According to Reed, officers apprehended a suspect and then “immediately began rendering aid to the victim who was suffering from multiple life‑threatening injuries,” packing wounds with gauze and controlling heavy bleeding until Montclair Fire Department medics took over.

“These officers displayed quick thinking, calm demeanor, and administered proper medical attention to preserve human life,” Reed said, and the chief noted a treating physician later reported the victim made a full recovery, though with some injuries that will likely be lifelong.

The council presented life‑saving ribbons and medals to the three officers and accepted a certificate of recognition from Nha, a district representative for state Senator Susan Rubio. Council members and the mayor praised the officers for their actions and the coordination between Montclair Police and Fire Department crews.

The recognition was presented during the council’s regular meeting; Chief Reed said the scene was chaotic and officers acted without knowing whether additional suspects remained at large. No further operational details or names of the suspect or victim were provided during the presentation.

The council’s remarks concluded with thanks to emergency personnel and an acknowledgment that such on‑scene medical care by law enforcement can be decisive when paramedics have not yet assumed care.