Woman Gives Birth In Cicero Traffic Jam

Roads were blocked for nearby fatal car fire, police said

A pregnant woman en route to the hospital gave birth Wednesday morning in an unexpected spot: a traffic jam in west suburban Cicero.

Town spokesman Ray Hanania said Hector and Katie Morales were headed down Roosevelt Road near Laramie Avenue to West Suburban Hospital when they realized the area was blocked.

Contractions came faster and faster, and the couple pulled into a nearby gas station parking lot where Katie Morales delivered baby Aidan in their van around 8 a.m. He's the couple's second child. Emergency crews met them at the gas station. Mom and baby are in good health.

This story of joy is not without sadness, however.

The traffic jam was caused by a fatal car fire reported around 5:45 a.m. on Laramie Avenue between Roosevelt and 14th Street. One of the three people in the car were pronounced dead on the scene and the two others were taken in critical condition to Loyola Hospital.

"It saddened us to just find out of the terrible accident that took place hours before, our condolences to the families," Hector Morales said.

"I do want to thank the Cicero Police and Fire Department. The 911 dispatch center guided us quickly and calmly. At this time mom and baby are resting and bonding. Our family members are visiting and our thanks go out to everyone."

The cause of the vehicle fire is under investigation.

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