It's a parent's worst nightmare: getting into an accident while driving with a baby or toddler.
That's the scene that Deputy Ric Lindley encountered as a first responder to an accident on Interstate 20 in Birmingham, Alabama, Tuesday morning.
Jefferson County Sheriff's Office posted a moving image to its Facebook page, showing Officer Lindley holding a baby in front of an emergency vehicle and at least one wrecked car.
The baby, whose back is to the camera, is dressed in pink with his or her head cradled by Lindley's arm. It looks like he may be rocking the infant. Lindley wears sunglasses, and while he's not exactly frowning, one gets the impression that he may not be up for having his picture taken just then. He appears totally invested in the moment of caring for the child.
It's a grisly scene in the background, but according to CNN, no one was seriously hurt, and the crash involved an ambulance and a tractor trailer. So it's likely the ambulance pictured may actually be one of the vehicles involved in the collision.
Still, the image could go down in history as one of those that captures the beauty of humanity in the aftermath of a tragedy.
Receiving more than 13,400 likes and more than 4,600 shares since it was posted; the photograph has also raked in supportive comments.
"You're in good hands baby girl," commented PBSO - Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office.
"A dad in a uniform ...is still a dad," wrote another user.
A person answering phones at Jefferson County Sheriff's Office told TODAY.com that Lindley was unavailable for comment as he was "out in the field."
A spokesperson was not immediately available for further comment.
