New Hampshire seafood festival: Governor saves man choking on lobster roll

During a seafood festival eating contest in Hampton Beach, New Hampshire, a contestant named Christian Moreno began choking on a lobster roll. The event took place on a Sunday, where participants had ten minutes to consume as many lobster rolls as possible. Moreno, who aimed to eat at least 20 rolls, had already consumed two when he started to choke and signaled for help by tapping his chest. New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu, who was present at the event, quickly intervened. Sununu rushed to Moreno's aid and performed the Heimlich maneuver, successfully dislodging the food. After several abdominal thrusts, first responders took over to ensure Moreno's safety. The governor later expressed surprise at the chaotic scene, noting the commotion surrounding the incident. Moreno, who was unaware it was the governor assisting him, later learned of Sununu's involvement from a fellow contestant. Despite the choking incident, Moreno recovered and returned to the contest, ultimately consuming nine lobster rolls. Although he did not win the competition, the experience became a memorable moment for both him and the governor. The event highlighted the unexpected nature of competitive eating and the importance of quick action in emergencies. This incident not only showcased the excitement of the seafood festival but also demonstrated the governor's willingness to step in during a crisis. It served as a reminder of the unpredictability of live events and the need for preparedness in public gatherings.