Christmas delivery a surprise

TAHLEQUAH -- John Bennett and Nicole Flinn got lucky without ever stepping inside Cherokee Casino.

On the way to Hastings Hospital in Tahlequah, Flinn delivered a baby girl  in the parking lot.

"I've got one of the best stories I've ever had for Christmas now," said Bennett.

Abigail Renae Bennett was born a few days early. "She kind of rushed her way into this world," said Flinn. "She was ready to celebrate Christmas,  too, I guess."  

Bennett and Flinn were traveling on Highway 62 near Muskogee when it became clear they weren't going to make it to the hospital. Bennett pulled  into the casino parking lot and called for help.

"I'm running around like a chicken with my head cut off," said Bennett. "I'm yelling at them, ‘I can see a head! I need some help!'"

With the help of paramedic Charles Lawless, 7-pound, 5-ounce Abigail was born inside her father's pickup truck. Lawless is listed on Abigail's birth certificate as the one who delivered her.  Bennett cooks for an Italian restaurant in Muskogee and offered to prepare a free meal for Lawless.

"I've had the neighbors and stuff come by and say, 'Can I rub her head for good luck?'  And I'm like, she's automatically the good luck baby now I guess," said Flinn.

Abigail has received a lot of attention since her speedy arrival, though she's sleeping through most of it.