More on the Morris Ave. Miracle Birth

More details have come to light about the baby born in a parking lot on Morris Ave. in late May, and a more dramatic story has emerged.

According to Springfield Fire Chief James Sanford, the baby, a girl, was born with its umbilical cord wrapped around her neck, and emergency responders had to rush to make sure it could breath.

Springfield Police Dispatch received a report of a woman giving birth in an SUV  at 11:49 a.m. on Tuesday, May 31. Springfield's Police, First Aid Squad and fire, along with Atlantic Healthcare Paramedics Engine 3 were dispatched to the parking lot of the TD Bank on 540 Morris Avenue.

Police Officer Mark McBratney found a woman had just given birth in the front seat of a motor vehicle. McBratney assessed the scene, supported the baby girl with the mother and provided information to other responding units.

When Springfield Engine 3 arrived, the Firefighters found the baby's umbilical cord  wrapped around her neck. Fire Captain Carlo Palumbo removed the cord and cleared the airway. Firefighter Brian Schmitt clamped off the cord. The baby was given stimulation to induce breathing on her own.

Once she was safely breathing, emergency responders wrapped the newborn in a sterile blanket and Firefighter David Maas provided medical supplies. Upon the arrival of Atlantic Healthcare Medic 2, patient care was transferred to the advanced life support unit.

The Springfield First Aid Squad transported the baby and the mother to Saint Barnabas Hospital. Mother and child are reported to be doing well.