Staten Island Artist Scott LoBaido ‘Died for 2 Minutes’ During Cardiac Arrest, Undergoes Surgery, and Updates from Hospital Bed

Staten Island artist and conservative activist Scott LoBaido suffered cardiac arrest Tuesday night after attempting to confront New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani at a pro-police event, later revealing that he “actually died for 2 minutes” before being revived by emergency responders.

The 61-year-old LoBaido collapsed at the National Night Out Against Crime gathering in Midland Beach, Staten Island. Witnesses said the incident occurred shortly after Mamdani was booed off the stage and LoBaido tried to approach the mayor. Police held him back, after which he reported feeling unwell and fell to the ground in front of hundreds of attendees.

Emergency personnel immediately began CPR and used a defibrillator. LoBaido was revived, began breathing again, and was provided oxygen before being loaded into an ambulance and transported to Staten Island University Hospital. He was initially listed in critical but stable condition.

From his hospital bed, LoBaido shared a message stating he had “actually died for 2 minutes” and that medics brought him back just in time. He also posted a photo of himself in the hospital raising his middle finger in his characteristic defiant style. Supporters, including Real America’s Voice host Grant Stinchfield, shared the updates and called for continued prayers.

LoBaido later underwent surgery. In a subsequent update posted from the hospital, he reported that he was out of surgery, recovering, and in good spirits. He expressed gratitude for the overwhelming prayers and support from family, fans, and friends, including a message from former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani. “Scott’s not done fighting for NYC and his country,” the update stated, adding, “Keep your eyes on the sky.”

On Friday, LoBaido posted a further recovery message with the words “Open for business!” accompanied by a video from his hospital bed, signaling continued improvement and determination to resume his activism.

LoBaido is a well-known Staten Island-based patriot artist recognized for large-scale American flag murals, public art installations, and high-profile protests. He has been a vocal critic of Mayor Mamdani, whom he has accused of holding socialist and anti-police views. Previous confrontations include an incident during Mamdani’s campaign in which LoBaido was arrested after calling the then-candidate a communist and criticizing his positions; the summonses were later dismissed. He has also erected a giant middle-finger statue directed at City Hall and staged other theatrical protests against policies he opposes.

The cardiac emergency drew widespread attention among conservative circles and LoBaido’s large online following. Supporters highlighted his longstanding defense of law enforcement and American symbols, while the artist himself has indicated the scare has not diminished his resolve. As of the latest updates, he remains focused on recovery and has made clear he intends to continue his public advocacy for New York City and the country.