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A Worcestershire couple experienced an extraordinary moment when their son was born unexpectedly in a KFC parking lot, inspiring them to affectionately nickname him “Colonel” in honor of the fast-food chain’s founder.
Katie Murphy, 33, was en route to the hospital with her partner, Stephen Kirby, 32, when labor intensified suddenly. With no time to reach medical care, Stephen pulled into the KFC parking lot off the A38 in Bromsgrove and called for an ambulance. Moments later, at 9:35 p.m. on August 29, Katie gave birth to baby Cody right there in their car, with Stephen assisting in the delivery before emergency responders arrived.
Katie, who works as a complaints call handler, recounted the dramatic event: “When the ambulance was trying to find us, the only identifiable location was KFC. As Stephen parked and came around to my side, he caught our son just in time.” Thankfully, paramedics arrived shortly afterward and transported the family safely to the hospital.
Baby Cody arrived healthy, weighing 7 lbs 8 oz, and quickly earned the playful moniker “Colonel Cody.” Katie shared that the birth made them quite popular with the hospital midwifery team-who even celebrated with KFC for dinner. She added with a smile, “We’re planning to take him back to KFC for his first birthday-and maybe even get him a weekend job there.”
The couple, who are also parents to four-year-old daughter Freya, had initially visited the hospital earlier that day when Katie suspected labor was beginning but were sent home. Their doorbell camera later captured the hurried departure for the hospital shortly before Cody’s surprise arrival.
Stephen, a fridge engineer, explained the rapid progression: “We left the hospital around 4 p.m., but Katie’s contractions grew stronger at home. She didn’t want to return too soon in case we were sent away again.
Around 9 p.m., the pain was so intense we decided to go. Halfway there, Katie realized the baby was coming.
I called an ambulance while pulling into the KFC lot to safely stop.”
Katie recalled feeling the baby’s head as they entered the parking area. Stephen quickly moved to her side and caught Cody as he was born.
“It all happened so fast,” Katie said. “But Cody is perfectly healthy and thriving.”
KFC expressed their delight at being part of this remarkable story, sending their best wishes along with merchandise and vouchers for the family’s celebration. A company spokesperson said, “We’re honored to have been the place where Cody made his grand entrance and look forward to welcoming the family back for a special meal.”
What began as an unexpected roadside birth has become a cherished family tale, complete with a fitting nickname and a story sure to be shared for years to come.