Seven-Year-Old Stamford Boy Honored as Hero After Saving His Mother’s Life
A second grader from Stamford is being celebrated for extraordinary courage after his quick thinking helped save his mother during a medical emergency.
Seven-year-old Zavier Cordero was presented with a Commissioner Award on December 1 during a brief but emotional ceremony at the Stamford Police Commission meeting. Officers praised him for staying calm under frightening circumstances and taking life-saving action.
A Distressing Night Turns Heroic
On November 12, around 9:12 p.m., Officer Dave O’Meara was on routine patrol when he overheard a dispatch call involving a possible medical crisis. Police, fire and EMS crews were sent to a home in Stamford’s Springdale neighborhood after 911 received what O’Meara described as a “distressing call” a young boy reporting that his mother had collapsed and needed urgent help.
Despite his age, Zavier managed to clearly explain the situation to dispatchers and stayed on the line, ensuring first responders could locate the home quickly.
“While responding to the call, all units learned that the child would unlock the door and let first responders inside,” O’Meara said. “Upon arrival, I found fire and EMS personnel assisting the child’s mother. Zavier had accurately described his mother’s condition and emphasized that she needed help right away.”
Calm, Brave, and Focused
As emergency crews worked on his mother, Zavier guided officers into the living room and told them exactly what happened. He also shared that he is a second grader at Springdale Elementary School, a detail that further highlighted just how young and composed he was during the crisis.
His mother was transported to Stamford Hospital for treatment. Meanwhile, Zavier continued helping responders by providing contact numbers for relatives who could care for him.
“All personnel at that scene were impressed by Zavier’s quick thinking and calm demeanor,” O’Meara said. “His actions likely played a crucial role in saving his mother’s life or preventing further harm.”
Recognition From the Community
During the Police Commission meeting, officials played a redacted portion of the 911 call. In it, Zavier can be heard calmly explaining that his mother had passed out and needed immediate help. His steady voice and clear communication were widely praised.
Stamford Police Chief Timothy Shaw described Zavier as a “special individual,” noting that it’s rare to see such courage and clarity from someone so young.
The Commissioner Award honored not only his bravery but also the way he embodied the best of community awareness, knowing how to respond in an emergency, trusting first responders and remaining focused until help arrived.
A Lesson in Preparedness
Zavier’s story is already resonating beyond Stamford. It serves as a reminder of the importance of teaching children how to react during emergencies, including how to call 911, what information to share and how to keep themselves safe until help arrives.
Although the night was frightening, Zavier’s courage brought his mother the help she needed when every second mattered. And now, the community has made sure he knows just how much his actions meant.
