Full Breakdown
New Jersey Man Charged After Attempted Assault on Firefighter During Water Rescue
1/5/2026, 11:47:35 AM
Incident Overview: New Year's Eve Rescue Attempt
On New Year’s Eve, a 31-year-old man named Christopher Treadway attempted to stab a firefighter with a screwdriver while being rescued from rough waters off the coast of Atlantic City, New Jersey. The incident occurred shortly after noon when firefighters were alerted to Treadway's distress in the freezing waters. Rookie firefighter Dominic Gitto, who had only been on the job for a few months, waded through the water on a longboard to reach Treadway, who was floating but not actively swimming.
As Gitto and another firefighter approached, Treadway reportedly became agitated and lunged at Gitto with a concealed screwdriver. Gitto successfully deflected the attack, and despite Treadway's continued resistance, the rescue team formed a human chain to bring him to safety. Once ashore, Treadway was taken into custody and transported to a psychiatric inpatient unit for evaluation, as officials believed he was experiencing a psychiatric episode during the incident.
Consequences and Charges
Following the incident, Treadway was 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 Chief, Scott Evans, commended Gitto for his professionalism and bravery during the rescue, noting that he had to receive treatment for acute hypothermia after the operation.
Official Statements on the Incident
In response to the incident, Chief Evans emphasized the importance of training for hazardous situations, stating, “Our firefighters are trained to handle hazardous situations, including cold-water rescues, and this incident underscores the importance of that training and teamwork.” The Atlantic City firehouse also praised the efforts of all involved, highlighting that a life was saved during the rescue.
Criticism & Opposition
While the incident has been largely viewed through the lens of the firefighters' bravery, there are concerns regarding the mental health crisis and the challenges first responders face when dealing with individuals in distress. The incident raises questions about the adequacy of mental health resources available to prevent such situations from escalating.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
There are no conflicting reports regarding the details of Treadway's actions during the rescue. However, the specifics of his psychiatric condition and the circumstances leading to his distress in the water remain unclear, as authorities have not disclosed further information about his mental health history.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Great work by Firefighter Gitto, and all companies involved. A life was definitely saved,” — Atlantic City Firehouse
- “Our firefighters are trained to handle hazardous situations, including cold-water rescues, and this incident underscores the importance of that training and teamwork,” — Scott Evans, Atlantic City Fire Chief
This incident highlights the risks faced by first responders and the complexities surrounding mental health crises, particularly in emergency situations.
