A Manchester Police officer helps to deliver a newborn baby in the field. Township Police said a dispatcher with the Ocean County Sheriff's Department received the initial 911 call about a woman in labor on Amsterdam Avenue at around 11:45 p.m. Thursday, on April 17th.

Police said telecommunicator Alia Hartman determined that the contractions were only one minute apart and that the baby's head was crowning. She gave the family instructions and contacted Patrol Officer Joseph Fastige who was on patrol a few blocks away.

Officer Fastige and the baby's father, Jason Roach, assisted in the three minute delivery of the newborn, that included Fastige gently unwrapping the umbilical cord from the baby's neck with his fingers. Manchester Police said moments after the birth, police radio transmissions could be heard announcing that "Doctor 398" delivered the baby successfully, in reference to the officer's badge number.

Police said, a short while later Officer Patrick Mabie, a trained EMT, arrived and checked to make sure the baby's airways were properly cleared. MONOC Paramedic's and Manchester First Aid arrived and assisted with cutting the umbilical cord.

The mother, Dawn Roach, 31, and her newborn son, Jason O'Jon Roach Jr, were then transported to Community Medical Center in Toms River. Where they were both listed in good health.

In a written statement Officer Fastige said, "It was a scary and awesome experience all the way around. It was something that you never think will happen, but sure enough it did."

The press release goes on to say "Captain Lisa Parker commended the efforts of everyone who worked together in a very stressful situation." "Though officers have basic training on child birth, it is uncommon they encounter this type of call over the course their career. We're proud Officer Fastige was able to act quickly, taking control of the situation and ensuring a successful delivery. We wish the family all the best," Captain Parker said.

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