HARTFORD (WHDH) — A Connecticut mother and her new daughter are recovering in a Hartford hospital after she gave birth on the side of the highway.

Imania Crawford was not due until next weekend but started having contractions Thursday at her home in Wethersfield. A family member drove Crawford to St. Francis Hospital in Hartford but did not make it to the delivery room in time. Crawford gave birth to daughter Julay along Route 5 and 15 near exit 87.

State Trooper Charles Lavoie spoke to Crawford’s family member on the phone and helped keep them calm as help arrived. He credited his training as a state trooper but said being the father of two children, including a newborn, helped as well.

(Copyright (c) 2024 Sunbeam Television. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)

Join our Newsletter for the latest news right to your inbox