Hawaii police say a homeless woman gave birth on the street and then tried to flee the scene by dragging her baby by the umbilical cord.
The incident occurred around 5 p.m. Tuesday near Mamo Street and Keawe Street in Hilo.
Lieutenant Rio Amon-Wilkins told Island News Officers responded to a report of a woman dragging her baby on the street.
Firefighters arrived and quickly cut the baby's umbilical cord. After the umbilical cord was cut, the woman attempted to flee the scene, but police soon found her.
First responders said the baby was breathing but not moving at the time and was taken to Hilo Medical Center.
Medical personnel determined that the girl was in good condition and had no injuries. She was taken into custody by Child Protective Services.
Eamonn Wilkins said the woman was initially charged with child neglect, but was released after receiving treatment.
He said she was well known among local residents and police.
A local security guard told the Island News that she had lived in the area for more than 10 years and had been hit by a car once because she often walked into the middle of cars. He added that the woman likely didn't even know she was pregnant.
“Thankfully, as you know, there were no major injuries to the baby in this incident, but it was initially reported that she was injured. It is in good condition,” Amon said. Wilkins added.
Police are appealing for information from any witnesses who may have witnessed the incident.
Here's local news about the incident:
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