Full Breakdown
New Jersey Man Charged After Attempting to Stab Firefighter During Water Rescue
1/5/2026, 11:46:41 AM
Incident Overview: New Year's Eve Rescue Attempt
On New Year's Eve, a rescue operation off the coast of Atlantic City, New Jersey, turned dangerous when 31-year-old Christopher Treadway allegedly attempted to stab rookie firefighter Dominic Gitto with a screwdriver. Emergency crews were dispatched shortly after noon to assist Treadway, who was reported to be in distress in the frigid waters near Rhode Island Avenue Beach. Upon arrival, firefighters found Treadway floating and conscious but not swimming.
The Rescue Operation
Firefighter Dominic Gitto entered the water equipped with a rescue longboard to reach Treadway. As Gitto approached, Treadway reportedly became agitated and lunged at him with a concealed screwdriver. Gitto successfully deflected the attack and continued the rescue effort, despite Treadway's aggressive behavior. Multiple attempts to secure Treadway onto a rescue sled failed due to his resistance, prompting the rescue team to form a human chain to pull him into shallow water.
Once on shore, Treadway continued to resist and was ultimately subdued by Atlantic City Police officers. Officials believe that Treadway was experiencing a psychiatric episode during the incident. Following the rescue, he was taken into custody and transported to a psychiatric inpatient unit for evaluation.
Firefighter's Condition and Response
During the rescue, Gitto's dry suit began to take on water, exposing him to the cold ocean temperatures. After the operation, he exhibited symptoms of acute hypothermia and was treated at Atlantic City Medical Center, where he was released later that day. Atlantic City Fire Chief Scott Evans commended Gitto for his bravery and professionalism, especially given his limited experience as a firefighter.
Charges Filed Against Treadway
Christopher Treadway has been charged with multiple offenses, including aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, possession of a weapon for unlawful purposes, resisting arrest, and obstruction. The Atlantic City Fire Department highlighted the importance of training and teamwork in hazardous situations, emphasizing that a life was saved during the incident.
Official Statements
Chief Scott Evans remarked, “This was an extremely dangerous and unpredictable rescue,” praising Gitto's actions as a demonstration of courage and personal sacrifice. The Atlantic City firefighters' union echoed this sentiment on social media, stating, “Great work by Firefighter Gitto, and all companies involved. A life was definitely saved.”
Conclusion
The New Year's Eve incident underscores the unpredictable nature of emergency rescues and the potential dangers first responders face. Treadway's psychiatric episode and subsequent charges highlight the complexities involved in such rescue operations, while Gitto's quick thinking and bravery have been recognized by both his department and the community.
