Four Colorado police officers helped deliver a set of triplets in a snowstorm after responding to a woman’s screams for help at a neighbor’s front porch. The officers found the 24-year-old mother in labor more than three months early, and immediately sprang into action, calling for medics as they saw a baby boy born but turning blue. Despite the challenging conditions with snow and rain falling, officers used bread ties to fasten off the umbilical cord, collected towels and blankets to keep the mother warm, and quickly cut the cord and rushed the newborn to a patrol car to keep him warm on the cold morning.
As the baby stopped breathing once he reached the vehicle, an officer administered CPR and chest compressions until paramedics arrived, giving the baby a “fighting chance of survival.” A second baby boy was born as officers tended to the mother, and eventually, both babies were taken to the ambulance as medics continued to work on the first child. After another ambulance arrived, the mother was taken to the hospital where she underwent surgery and delivered the third baby, also a boy. All three babies had strong heartbeats and were taken to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.
The triplets’ father, Eric Mayeda, introduced the three boys, named Burt Isao Leonard-Mayeda, Kikutaro Alan Leonard-Mayeda, and Billy Bob Leonard-Mayeda, on social media. Mayeda shared that his girlfriend, Tiffany Leonard, had gone into labor while staying at her mom’s house and had to walk to neighbors’ house to call 911 because her phone had died. The triplets were born more than two months before their expected due date. Police Chief Adam Turk commended the officers for their teamwork, ingenuity, and care in helping the mother and her newborn triplets, acknowledging the success of the call as a reflection of the officers’ dedication and training.
The woman had attempted to get help after going into labor while home alone, and her quick actions, despite being in a difficult situation, ultimately led to her and the babies getting the necessary aid. Mayeda expressed gratitude for the support of the neighbors who called 911, allowing the officers to arrive quickly and assist in the delivery. The premature birth of the triplets posed a challenge, but thanks to the swift and coordinated efforts of the officers and paramedics, all three babies were born safely and were receiving care in the NICU. The unexpected and dramatic circumstances of the birth highlighted the importance of having public safety agencies like the police and EMS working together to respond to emergencies swiftly and effectively.
The officers’ heroic actions in delivering the triplets in adverse weather conditions demonstrated their commitment to serving the community and saving lives in unexpected situations. The successful outcome of the call underscored the essential role of law enforcement in providing immediate assistance and support during emergencies, even in the most challenging circumstances. Despite the complexity of the situation, the officers remained calm and focused, utilizing their training and resources to ensure the safety and well-being of the mother and babies. The mother’s bravery and determination, along with the quick thinking and actions of the officers and medical personnel, resulted in a positive outcome for all involved, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and collaboration in emergency response situations.
