In a remarkable incident in Queensland’s Moreton Bay, two proactive police officers quickly aided a woman in labour who was unable to reach the hospital. On March 1 at approximately 9:20 am, Constables Jacob Pennisi and Philippe Stigner were arriving back at the Deception Bay police station when Nathaniel Pedler urgently sought their assistance.
Nathaniel’s wife, Julie, was in the late stages of childbirth, prompting the couple to pull into the police station carpark, as time was insufficient to reach the hospital. The situation developed rapidly, and with the help of Triple-Zero operators, Constable Stigner guided Nathaniel and Julie through the birthing process.
Within five minutes, Julie gave birth to a baby boy named Blake right in the carpark. Constable Pennisi shared that they were instructed by the operator to retrieve a towel to wrap the newborn in and keep both mother and baby warm. They quickly located a towel from the family’s vehicle and successfully wrapped baby Blake before paramedics arrived.
Reflecting on the event, Pennisi remarked on the unexpected nature of their day, noting that every moment in their line of work is unique. Two months later, the Pedler family revisited the police station to express their gratitude for the officers’ timely assistance.
Julie later conveyed her surprise at the rapid progression of her labour, expressing appreciation for the police’s support during the unexpected delivery. This heartwarming story highlights the readiness and adaptability of first responders in unconventional situations.