Watch CBS News

First Responders In Longmont Stabbing Attack Honored At State Capitol

DENVER (CBS4)- The first responders who rushed to help a pregnant woman, the victim of a brutal attack where her unborn baby was cut out of her belly, were honored at the state Capitol today. But they say it was truly the victim who saved her own life.

Michelle Wilkins continues to recover at home. She has thanked everyone who has sent her prayers and positive thoughts. On Tuesday state lawmakers thanked those who responded to her call for help.

first responders
First responders from Longmont were honored in the state House on Tuesday (credit: CBS)

RELATED STORIES: Michelle Wilkins Story Archive

On the state House floor, lawmakers were brought to their feet as they applauded for those Longmont emergency crews who assisted in the Wilkins call.

The crime took place in Longmont on March 18 at the home of Dynel Lane. Lane, 34, faces attempted murder and assault charges for allegedly stabbing and injuring Wilkins and cutting the baby from her womb and stealing it. The incident happened after Wilkins came to the home apparently to view baby clothes put up for sale on Craigslist.

Michelle Wilkins
Michelle Wilkins (credit: Michelle Wilkins' Family)

An autopsy determined the child was not alive after being taken from Wilkins' body.

The 911 dispatcher who answered Wilkins call said it has been some tough weeks for all those involved. Beth Kemper also said while she frequently handles difficult calls as part of her duties, this was one of the toughest. She also said it was a big honor to be part of the ceremony on Tuesday.

"Very excited to be recognized. I'm really very proud to represent our organization and when I found out that Representative Singer asked that I accept, I was very proud," said Kemper.

Kemper said that first responders in Longmont were in the middle of trauma training when the call came in and they were able to incorporate that training into their response.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.