The baby couldn't wait — and a NJ trooper answered the call

Being pregnant in the hot, humid, summer weather is a challenge for many expecting moms.

Being pregnant in traffic on the Jersey Turnpike and suddenly going into labor presents a whole set of new challenges.

Just before the Fourth of July weekend, a Jersey City couple was on the Turnpike when mom suddenly went into labor.

Dad pulled over onto the shoulder, realizing that he wasn't going make it all the way to the hospital.

New Jersey state trooper stepped in when there was no time to wait

As New Jersey state trooper Freddie Guacamaya rolled up, the dad, Alex Fast was already positioned to help bring the baby into the world.

The trooper didn't hesitate, jumping in to help, saying to the dad that it was his first time delivering a baby.

Moments later, a healthy baby boy, Archer William Fast, was born at mile marker 113.3 on the Turnpike's eastern spur in Secaucus.

With paramedics still on the way, and no medical supplies immediately available, the Trooper used an iPhone charging cable to clamp the baby's umbilical cord until EMS arrived.

A passing truck driver also stopped to provide towels as everyone worked together to care for the newborn. Emergency medical personnel soon arrived and transported both mother and baby to the hospital.

A Blue Friday honor for calm under pressure

Trooper Guacamaya then drove the family's vehicle to the hospital so it would be waiting for them when they arrived.

Today, both mom Kristen and baby Archer are healthy and doing well.

Because Trooper Guacamaya remained calm, adapted to an extraordinary situation, and stepped in to help a family during one of the most important moments of their lives, a healthy baby boy entered the world safely.

Guacamaya has stayed in contact with the family and plans to meet Archer soon.

He is our Blue Friday honoree this week.

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The post above reflects the thoughts and observations of New Jersey 101.5 talk show host Bill Spadea. Any opinions expressed are Bill's own.

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