A Driver Hit His Grandma During Their Bike Ride. This 6-Year-Old Knew Exactly What to Do

Finn Mackenzie is 6 years old. He loves sleepovers at his grandma’s house, bike rides around her neighborhood, and being her “best bud.”

On July 30, he also became the reason she got help fast when it mattered most.

This month, his hometown of Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey, honored him as a hero.

A Bike Ride With Grandma

Becky McCluskey and her grandson have the kind of bond every grandparent dreams of. “From the time I first saw him, we just connected,” she told CBS News Philadelphia. “I’m the grandmother that likes to play.”

That summer afternoon, the two were out riding bikes in her neighborhood. Finn pulled into the driveway, and Becky parked her bike on the side of the street. She asked him a simple question: keep riding, or change and jump in the pool?

Before they could decide, a driver slammed into her and knocked her to the ground.

What a 6-Year-Old Did Next

Finn didn’t freeze.

“He was right there. He came running down to me holding my hand,” Becky remembered.

Then he went into action. He ran to tell his grandfather. He went next door to the neighbor’s house and asked her to call 911. And then he came straight back to his grandmother’s side and stayed with her until help arrived.

“I knew 911 could help,” Finn said.

A Lesson His Mom Taught Him Just in Time

Finn knew what to do because his mom had taught him. Last spring, Kate Mackenzie started teaching her son how to call 911 and what to do in an emergency.

She never expected him to use it so soon.

“He’s awesome, I’m just so proud of him,” she said.

Thankfully, Becky didn’t break any bones. She’s still dealing with some pain, but she says time with Finn is the best medicine. Police said the driver was cited for careless driving.

Honored by His Town

Last week, the mayor, township committee and police chief honored Finn for his selfless service, courage and compassion.

“Just very calm under pressure,” Egg Harbor Township Police Chief Fred Spano said. “He did something that probably most 6-year-olds wouldn’t have the awareness and level of responsibility to do.”

A Future Hero in the Making

Watching first responders help his grandma left a big impression on Finn. Now, he says when he grows up he wants to be a police officer or a firefighter.

“Seeing them help her, seeing it in a different light, he really latched on to that,” his mom said.

It’s a good reminder for every family: teach your kids how to call for help. One day, the smallest person in the room might be the bravest.

Source: CBS News Philadelphia, October 14, 2026.