Lt. Matthew Carey Recognized After Life-Saving Response at Haworth 5K

A 74-year -old runner experienced cardiac arrest during the Haworth 5 K on Saturday, leading nearby public safety officials and EMS staff to promptly initiate lifesaving measures. 

As reported in published accounts, Sgt. Gianluca Ragone witnessed the runner collapse on Haworth Avenue and summoned emergency medical help. Lieutenant Sgt. Justin Fox Ragone, D/Sgt. James Morgan, a Demarest firefighter; Special Police Officer Matthew Carey; and members of the Haworth Volunteer Ambulance Corps all responded to the runner.

The runner was discovered unresponsive and not breathing. The responders promptly started CPR and employed an automated external defibrillator. The AED administered one shock, following which the runner resumed breathing. The responders kept providing treatment until he regained consciousness and could speak to them. 

The Haworth Volunteer Ambulance Corps then took the runner to Englewood Hospital for additional assessment and care. His later medical condition was not made public.

The 2026 Haworth 5K Run/Walk took place on September 19 at 9:30 a.m., at 142 Terrace Street in Haworth. The race was also designated as a USATF-NJ Masters Men’s and Masters Women’s Championship Race. 

The Demarest Fire Department honored Lt. Matthew Carey in September. 21 posts for his role in the response. The department stated that Carey worked with Lt. Sergeant Fox Ragone, D/Sgt. Morgan and members of Haworth EMS administered CPR to the runner. The department also commended Carey for what it called life-saving actions during the race.