Baby Girl Born On Side Of NJ Turnpike Near Newark Airport

NEWARK, NJ — New Jersey State Troopers saved the life of a newborn baby girl who was born on the side of the New Jersey Turnpike last Friday, but suffered complications after birth, including losing blood from her umbilical cord.

The dramatic incident began last Friday, Dec. 15 at 5:21 a.m. when 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 Exit 13A, the area of Newark Liberty International airport and the Elizabeth seaport, pulled over to the shoulder. Miraculously, his wife successfully delivered a baby girl on her own; it was too soon for them to even call 911 at that point.

After the baby was born, the father continued driving towards the hospital, but called 911 after he became concerned for his wife and child. State Police told him to stop his vehicle on the shoulder and wait for assistance. Sergeant Robert Ravotto, and Troopers Joseph Walsh, David Allen, and Mudduser Malik from the Newark station responded to the area around Exit 14A. When they got there, the baby girl's breathing was very slow, and she appeared pale, lethargic and was not crying.

Ravotto determined the baby was losing blood through the uncut umbilical cord. With the help of assisting troopers, Ravotto cut and tied the umbilical cord and then suctioned the baby’s airways with a bulb syringe. The newborn’s breathing immediately improved, and her skin regained color.

Mom and baby were transported to Jersey City Medical Center.

"We are glad to report that baby Olivia is doing well, home with her family for the holidays!" State Police wrote on Facebook. "Great job, Mom! Great job, Dad! Great job, Olivia! And great job, Troops!"

Pictured below are Sgt. Rob Ravotto and Tpr. David Allen, in a photo provided by the NJ State Police. (Top image via Morguefile.)