At a Glance
- Derek Sanchez born at 12:02 a.m. at Ascension Seton Medical Center
- Opal June Ixchel Cruz born at 12:05 a.m. at St. David’s Women’s Center of Texas
- First two newborns of Austin in 2026
- Why it matters: Marks Austin’s first births of the year and shows hospital activity right after midnight
On New Year’s Day, two hospitals in Austin recorded births within minutes of midnight, possibly making them the first births of 2026 in the city.
First Birth at Ascension Seton

Derek Sanchez was delivered at 12:02 a.m. on January 1, weighing 5 lbs 5 oz.
- Baby name: Derek Sanchez
- Time: 12:02 a.m.
- Weight: 5 lbs 5 oz
Second Birth at St. David’s
Opal June Ixchel Cruz followed at 12:05 a.m., weighing 5 lbs 4 oz.
| Hospital | Baby | Time | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ascension Seton Medical Center | Derek Sanchez | 12:02 a.m. | 5 lbs 5 oz |
| St. David’s Women’s Center of Texas | Opal June Ixchel Cruz | 12:05 a.m. | 5 lbs 4 oz |
These births were recorded immediately after midnight, potentially marking Austin’s first births of 2026.
Key Takeaways
- Derek Sanchez’s birth at 12:02 a.m. was the earliest of the year.
- Opal June Ixchel Cruz followed just three minutes later.
- Both babies weighed just over five pounds.
The early-hour deliveries highlight a busy start to the year for Austin’s maternity hospitals.

