An Indianapolis police officer is being hailed as a hero for her swift actions that saved the life of a premature baby whose mother was unaware of her pregnancy. In gripping bodycam footage, Kelly Chappell of the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department is seen rushing into a home and rescuing the newborn from a woman who had no idea she was expecting. Chappell skillfully performed chest compressions on the tiny infant, managing to elicit two gasps of air, a moment that brought immense relief.
Reflecting on the critical moment, Chappell recalled thinking, “This baby is going to have a chance. It’s really more of a miracle.” With 19 years of experience in law enforcement, Chappell’s training and instincts kicked in as soon as she arrived on the scene. Upon assessing the situation, she detected a bluish tint in the baby and a lack of pulse, prompting her to begin CPR immediately by using her fingers to press on the infant’s chest.
The bodycam footage captures Chappell going above and beyond, clearing the newborn’s airway by removing a sticky-looking fluid that the baby might have swallowed during delivery. Her relentless efforts continued for approximately eight minutes until paramedics took over, transporting the baby to the hospital for further care.
Gratefully acknowledging the mother’s quick thinking after unexpectedly giving birth at home, Chappell praised her for following the necessary steps to keep her daughter alive. The mother, who was unaware of her pregnancy, delivered the baby in the bathroom at an estimated gestation of 23 to 26 weeks, weighing around 2 lbs. She took immediate action, cutting the umbilical cord, wrapping the baby in a purple shirt, and encouraging her to breathe by gentle patting.
Recounting the emotional encounter, Chappell reassured the mother, “You did exactly what you need to do to keep your daughter alive.” A mother herself to two teenagers and a stepmother to an adult daughter, Chappell admits to keeping a CPR poster at home as a safety precaution.
Noting the unpredictability of pregnancy awareness, Chappell shared her own experience of not realizing she was pregnant for several months with one of her children. “Not everybody feels their child move,” she emphasized. The mother has since recovered well, and the baby, aptly named with a Spanish word for “miracle,” is progressing in her hospital care.
Recognizing Chappell’s extraordinary efforts, the IMPD honored her with an award for her life-saving actions. IMPD spokesman Tommy Thompson expressed pride in Chappell’s dedication, stating, “We are incredibly proud of Officer Kelly Chappell’s lifesaving efforts. Her actions ensured that the baby could breathe another day.”
The heartwarming story serves as a reminder of the unexpected challenges life may present and the resilience and heroism found within individuals like Officer Kelly Chappell, whose swift response and unwavering commitment made a profound difference in the life of a newborn
