Teen basketball player collapses on brooklyn court before dramatic lifesaving rescue
NYPD

Teen basketball player collapses on Brooklyn court before dramatic lifesaving rescue

FDNY firefighters and EMS crews revived young athlete after sudden cardiac arrest during game

BROOKLYN, N.Y. — A teenage basketball player who collapsed during a game in Brooklyn is preparing for an emotional reunion with the FDNY crews credited with saving his life after a sudden cardiac arrest on the court.

The New York City Fire Department said Jack McMurrer collapsed on March 8 while playing basketball at the Brooklyn Basketball Association after suddenly struggling to breathe.

According to the FDNY, a doctor and nurse who were in the stands immediately rushed to help and began performing CPR while others called 911.

FDNY Engine Company 279 arrived and continued lifesaving resuscitation efforts as EMS crews from Station 48 administered advanced medical care and medications.

Officials said the combined emergency response revived Jack after the cardiac arrest.

The teen spent nine days in the hospital, where he later received an implanted defibrillator before being discharged.

FDNY officials said Jack has since returned to the basketball court and is playing again.

He is scheduled to reunite Wednesday with the firefighters and EMS personnel who helped save his life during the department’s 30th Annual Second Chance Ceremony.


Key Points

  • A Brooklyn teen survived cardiac arrest after collapsing during a basketball game
  • A doctor, nurse, FDNY firefighters and EMS crews performed lifesaving CPR and medical treatment
  • The teen returned to basketball after spending nine days in the hospital
Chris Quigley

Chris Quigley

Chris Quigley is a Staff Writer and Community News Correspondent for Shore News Network, where she covers local government, public safety, community affairs, politics, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey. Her reporting focuses on delivering timely, accurate, and relevant news that helps readers stay informed about the communities in which they live and work.

As a member of the Shore News Network editorial team, Quigley works closely with public officials, community leaders, first responders, and local organizations to provide factual coverage of breaking news, municipal government, public policy, and events affecting New Jersey residents. Her work highlights both major developments and the local stories that shape communities across the state.

Quigley is committed to responsible journalism, emphasizing accuracy, source verification, and transparency in every story she reports. She strives to present information in a clear and accessible manner, helping readers better understand the issues, decisions, and events that impact their daily lives.

Through her work at Shore News Network, Chris Quigley contributes to the organization's mission of providing trusted local news coverage, accountability reporting, and community-focused journalism throughout New Jersey.

Chris Quigley is a graduate of Stockton State University and began her career at IN Jersey, the online news and media branch of the Asbury Park Press. She also worked at Monmouth Internet, the Ocean Signal Newspaper, and JTOWN Magazine during her career in both content management and operations.

Degrees: Business B.A. - Stockton University

Experience and interests: Criminal Justice, Business, Animal Care, Entertainment, Lottery News, Local News