Chattanooga, TN, August 20, 2025
News Summary
A Chattanooga firefighter, Lt. Alexander Efiom, played a crucial role in the delivery of a baby girl named Emma Lucille on Interstate 75. The parents could not reach the hospital in time, and Efiom utilized his recent OB training to ensure the infant’s safety. This incident highlights the ongoing partnership between the Chattanooga Fire Department and Erlanger Hospital, which provides essential training for emergency situations. The new family expressed gratitude for the timely assistance as both mother and baby are in good health.
Chattanooga Firefighter Plays Midwife, Assists in Unexpected Highway Delivery of Baby Girl
A Chattanooga firefighter played a crucial role in the delivery of a baby girl on the side of Interstate 75 early Thursday morning. The newborn, named Emma Lucille, was born before her parents could reach the hospital.
While traveling on the highway, the couple experienced a sudden and urgent need for assistance. After delivering their baby, they met with Lieutenant Alexander Efiom of Engine 8 at a gas station on Gunbarrel Road, where Lt. Efiom promptly checked the infant’s well-being.
Earlier on the same shift, Lt. Efiom and his crew underwent training at an OB class focusing on newborn deliveries, conducted by Erlanger Women’s Services. This training would prove invaluable as he ensured that Emma’s airway was clear and monitored her vital signs until Hamilton County EMS arrived on the scene.
As an experienced “girl dad,” Lt. Efiom expressed his joy at being part of such a significant moment in the family’s life. The mother and baby were subsequently transported to a local hospital, where both are reported to be in good health. The family expressed their gratitude to Lt. Efiom for his assistance during the delivery.
The incident highlighted the Chattanooga Fire Department’s (CFD) ongoing partnership with Erlanger Hospital, which has been offering OB classes to fire department cadets for several years. The CFD shared that the family granted permission to release photos from the event, allowing the department to celebrate the occasion further.
Second Newborn Rescue
In a separate incident, another baby girl named Amelia was found not breathing during a home birth. A midwife at the location promptly contacted 911, leading firefighters from Station 21 to perform life-saving CPR on the newborn. Remarkably, by the time Amelia was transported to a nearby hospital, her pulse had been restored, and she is currently receiving care in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).
The Chattanooga Fire Department acknowledged the contributions of Captain Joey Smith, Senior Firefighter Adam Waldrop, Senior Firefighter Pat O’Brien, and Firefighter Dishaun Broughton for their efforts in the rescue of Amelia. The CFD extended their well-wishes to Amelia and her family following this incident.
Community Impact
These incidents underscore the importance of emergency services training and the vital role firefighters play in the community. With programs that provide critical skill development such as the OB classes, the Chattanooga Fire Department continues to prepare their personnel for a diverse range of emergency situations, ultimately saving lives and aiding families in need.
FAQs
What happened in Chattanooga on Thursday morning?
A Chattanooga firefighter assisted a couple in delivering their baby girl, Emma Lucille, on the side of Interstate 75.
Who helped with the delivery?
Lieutenant Alexander Efiom from Engine 8 assisted the parents after the baby was already born.
What training had the firefighters received prior to the incident?
Lt. Efiom and his crew had participated in an OB class focused on assisting with newborn deliveries.
What is the current status of Emma Lucille?
Both Emma and her mother were taken to the hospital, where they are reported to be doing well.
What other incident related to newborn safety occurred recently in Chattanooga?
Firefighters assisted a newborn girl, Amelia, who was found not breathing during a home birth, bringing her pulse back before she was hospitalized.
Key Features of the News Events
| Feature | Emma Lucille’s Case | Amelia’s Case |
|---|---|---|
| Date | Thursday Morning | Recent (Exact date not specified) |
| Location | Interstate 75 | Home Birth |
| Key Person | Lt. Alexander Efiom | Cpt. Joey Smith and Firefighter Team |
| Outcome | Mother and child healthy, received EMS transport | Newborn revived and hospitalized in NICU |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Chattanooga Proposes $345 Million Budget Amid Financial Challenges
Chattanooga City Council District 1 Election Update
Chattanooga’s Weekend Roundup: DUI and Domestic Disputes
Additional Resources
- NewsChannel 9
- Wikipedia: Midwifery
- Fox 17 News
- Google Search: firefighter midwifery training
- Local 3 News
- Google Scholar: emergency services training
- Encyclopedia Britannica: firefighter
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
The CHATTANOOGA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREChattanooga.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, and Moon River Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, plus leading businesses in manufacturing, insurance, and utilities that power the local economy such as Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and EPB. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
