State Troopers from Troop “D” Newark Station assisted the parents of a newborn baby girl after an unexpected delivery on the New Jersey Turnpike left the newborn losing blood from her umbilical cord.
According to police, on Dec. 15th at 5:21 a.m., the expecting couple were driving from Pennsylvania to a New York hospital when the woman unexpectedly went into labor. The father, who was driving northbound in the area of Interchange 13A, pulled over to the shoulder where his wife successfully delivered a baby girl.
After the delivery, the father continued towards the hospital, but called 9-1-1 after he became concerned for his wife and child. State Police dispatchers directed him to stop his vehicle on the shoulder and wait for assistance.
Sergeant Robert Ravotto, and Troopers Joseph Walsh, David Allen, and Mudduser Malik responded to the area of Interchange 14A to render assistance.
When they arrived, they observed the baby girl and determined that her breathing was slow, she appeared pale, lethargic, and was not crying.
At this time, Sergeant Ravotto ascertained that the baby was losing blood through the uncut umbilical cord. With the help of assisting troopers, Sergeant Ravotto cut and tied the umbilical cord and then suctioned the baby’s airways with a bulb syringe. Troopers observed the newborn’s breathing to immediately improve, and her skin regained color.
Mom and baby were transported to Jersey City Medical Center where baby Olivia weighed in at 7 pounds, 4 ounces!
Police said baby Olivia is doing well and is home with her family for the holidays.
Photo Caption: Sgt. Rob Ravotto and Tpr. David Allen