Jersey City police officer catches baby dropped from second-story balcony

A 1-month-old baby dropped off a balcony by an unidentified man Saturday was spared injury by a surehanded Jersey City Police officer, who caught the infant, authorities said.

Officer Eduardo Matute of the Jersey City Police was among multiple officers who was positioned below the second-floor balcony on Rose Avenue on Saturday morning. After a lengthy standoff, during which the child was dangled over the over the balcony railing, the man dropped the infant, officials said.

Kimberly Wallace-Scalcione, a city spokesperson, said the child was taken to the hospital as a precaution. Jersey City Mayor Steve Fulop later posted a photo on social media of Matute holding the child at the hospital.

Wallace-Scalcione said the man who dropped the baby was immediately arrested and charges of attempted murder, aggravated assault and endangering the welfare of a child are pending, and that the investigation is ongoing.

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Hudson County Prosecutor Esther Suarez paid special thanks to Matute, Joseph Casey, who was the first to respond to a report of a man dangling a baby over a balcony, and the incident commander, Capt. Michael McKerry. 

“Kudos to the JCPD and all the officers involved for their heroics and for bringing a safe conclusion to this dangerous situation,” said Hudson County Prosecutor Esther Suarez on Twitter.

David Zimmer is a local reporter for NorthJersey.com. For unlimited access to the most important news from your local community, please subscribe or activate your digital account today.