A Bronx mother, Kashanna Legette, was reunited with the NYPD officers who delivered her baby outside her building on February 13. One-month-old Zanovia arrived unexpectedly, and Legette found herself needing immediate assistance.
A Fortuitous Response
Legette attempted to reach the hospital but went into labor before she could arrive. She delivered her baby on a piece of discarded furniture. Officers from the NYPD’s 42nd Precinct arrived on the scene and assisted with the delivery. Officer Keanu Phillip noted that such situations are “rare,” even with training exercises.
Officers Katerin Villar and Keanu Phillip were among those who assisted Legette. Villar asked about the frequency of Legette’s contractions and quickly realized the baby was coming. Phillip, a soon-to-be father himself, described his instinct to provide comfort and support, saying he “automatically assume[d] position, hold her head, stroke her head, say it’s going to be OK, breathe through your mouth.”
The officers are now considered “honorary godparents” by Legette, who expressed profound gratitude for their actions. Officer Remy was particularly moved when Legette chose his name for her daughter, stating it was “probably the coolest thing that’s going to happen in my career.” The officers were responding to a post assigned to deter violent crime when they encountered Legette.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened on February 13 in the Bronx?
Kashanna Legette went into labor outside her building and was assisted by NYPD officers from the 42nd Precinct, who delivered her baby.
How did the officers react to assisting with the delivery?
Officers described the situation as rare and expressed a sense of duty and compassion in helping Legette bring her baby into the world safely.
What did Kashanna Legette do to indicate her gratitude?
Legette named her baby Zanovia Remy, using Officer Roddmy Remy’s name as the baby’s middle name.
Will the officers remain involved in Zanovia’s life? It is possible the officers will maintain a connection with the family, given their honorary godparent status, but the extent of their future involvement remains to be seen.
