A 911 operator assists a roadside baby delivery on New Year’s Day, earning applause from Culpeper County officials.
CULPEPER COUNTY, Va. — A Culpeper County 911 operator is being applauded for her efforts in guiding a couple through delivery of a baby on New Year’s Day.
The couple had pulled over on Sperryville Pike when the man called 911.
Operator Candace Shackleford can be heard in the recorded call diagnosing the situation and then calmly and confidently walking the couple through the next few steps.
The man asks for an ambulance, but after learning how long ago the woman’s contractions are, Shackleford helps couple guide out the newborn Emmett.
Shortly after the baby is born, the man says he can hear the ambulance “coming down the road.”
“Taking the call I was in shock because I first heard the female screaming, but it turned into a beautiful call being able to help and walk dad through delivering the baby. Holding the baby was the most heartwarming moment and experience. I felt nothing but pure joy and wish nothing but the best for the family,” operator Candace Shackleford said.
The sheriff’s office described the call as “the very heart of public safety.”
“One of the highest honors in public safety is helping bring new life into the world. Candace’s calm voice was the lifeline for this young family. Awesome job, and thank you to Sheriff Chad Cubbage for meeting us at their home to celebrate this moment,” Sheriff T.W. Chilton said.