Twin Babies Born In Ambulance On The Way To Hospital

MCHENRY COUNTY, IL — A routine medical call ended up turning into an unforgettable experience Tuesday morning for crews with the Nunda Rural Fire Protection District.

Just after 7 a.m., firefighters and paramedics were dispatched to a home on Riverside Drive for a report of a woman experiencing labor contractions. But shortly after the patient was loaded into the ambulance and transport began, the call took an unexpected detour, fire officials said.

While en route to the hospital, the ambulance crew delivered twin babies — born just seven minutes apart.

The delivery was the first live birth for Nunda Rural Lt. Steve Nelson, a 19-year fire service veteran, and Firefighter/EMT Amanda Stautz, who has been with the district for about two years. Firefighter/Paramedic Austin Tennell of the Cary Fire Protection District also assisted with the delivery during transport.

Capt. Neil Austin drove the ambulance, while Firefighter Hunter Mann assisted crews at the home.

Despite the surprise circumstances, the delivery went smoothly, and the mother remained calm and composed throughout the experience, according to the news release.

“It was an incredible experience to be part of such an important moment,” the crew said in a statement. “We’re extremely happy with the outcome and wish the family all the best.”

The mother and newborn twins were transported to Northwestern Medicine Huntley Hospital, where all were reported to be doing well. No additional details are being released to protect the family’s privacy.