Ohio Snowplow Driver Helps Rescue Sick Newborn

ODOT worker clears path for ambulance carrying critical infant to hospital during winter storm

Jan. 27, 2026 at 3:31pm

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A snowplow driver in Cincinnati, Ohio, is being praised for his role in helping rescue a sick newborn during a harsh winter storm. ODOT worker Joe Estes received an urgent call about an ambulance carrying a critically ill infant named Bryson that was unable to reach the hospital due to impassable roads. Estes sprang into action, clearing miles of roadway so the ambulance could safely follow his snowplow to Cincinnati Children's Hospital.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the vital role that state transportation workers play in emergency situations, going above and beyond their normal duties to ensure public safety, even in the face of extreme winter weather conditions. Estes' quick thinking and dedication helped save a newborn's life.

The details

Estes worked over 30 hours in three days to clear the roads, with visibility poor due to the heavy snowfall. Video footage shows Estes' snowplow leading the way for the ambulance, its lights flashing, as it safely transported the sick infant to the hospital. A respiratory therapist traveling with Bryson later thanked Estes for his help, saying he was responsive and did whatever was needed.

  • The incident happened on Sunday, January 26, 2026.
  • Estes worked over 30 hours in three days to clear the roads.

The players

Joe Estes

An Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) snowplow driver who helped clear the way for an ambulance carrying a critically ill newborn to reach the hospital during a harsh winter storm.

Bryson

A sick newborn who was being transported by ambulance to Cincinnati Children's Hospital for urgent medical care.

Cincinnati Children's Hospital

The hospital where the sick newborn, Bryson, was being transported to receive critical medical treatment.

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What they’re saying

“It's probably the most important trek of my ODOT career. It wasn't just pushing snow; it was getting this ambulance to this hospital safely and back.”

— Joe Estes, ODOT Snowplow Driver

“We knew he was going to be cool — we had him on the phone a couple times and he was like 'Just tell me exactly what you guys need and where we're going.'”

— Respiratory Therapist

What’s next

Authorities report that baby Bryson is doing well and receiving care at Cincinnati Children's Hospital.

The takeaway

This story underscores the vital role that state transportation workers play in emergency situations, risking their own safety to ensure others can reach critical medical care, even in the face of extreme winter weather conditions. Estes' quick thinking and dedication helped save a newborn's life, demonstrating the importance of having skilled and responsive public servants on the job.