Former NHL star Tony Hrkac recently played the role of a hero by saving the life of a league employee who was choking on a pretzel in the press box during an L.A. Kings game at Crypto.com Arena on January 4. The incident was a harrowing one, with the NHL employee reportedly turning “purplish” while eating inside the arena.
Key Takeaway
Tony Hrkac, a former NHL star, demonstrated quick thinking and heroism by saving a choking league staffer’s life during a Kings game at Crypto.com Arena. His prompt administration of the Heimlich maneuver averted a potentially tragic situation, earning him well-deserved praise and recognition.
Tony Hrkac Springs into Action
57-year-old Hrkac, currently a Tampa Bay Lightning scout, was present at the scene and swiftly administered the Heimlich maneuver on the choking person. This quick action led to the ejection of the obstructing piece of pretzel, allowing the employee to breathe normally again. Eyewitnesses at the scene believe that Tony’s actions saved the choking person’s life.
A Look at Tony Hrkac’s Career
For those unfamiliar with Hrkac, he had a successful 14-season career in the NHL. His achievements include winning the Hobey Baker Award at the University of North Dakota in 1987, an honor bestowed upon the nation’s best college hockey player. Additionally, he was part of the team that secured a national championship for the university. Throughout his professional career, Tony played for various organizations, including the Blues, Blackhawks, and Stars. Notably, he clinched a Stanley Cup with Dallas in 1999 before eventually retiring in 2005, although he did make a comeback in later years.
