In the early morning hours of January 2, the Outer Banks community welcomed its New Year’s baby, Lucca Hernandez, born at 2:05 a.m. at Outer Banks Health Hospital. Weighing 7 pounds, 14 ounces and measuring 22 inches long, Lucca is the second child of Evaline and Elmer Hernandez of Kill Devil Hills and joins his proud older sister, Camila.

Lucca’s parents shared their joy at welcoming the first baby of 2026, calling him a true blessing and expressing how grateful they are that he is finally here.

As the first baby born on the Outer Banks in 2026, Lucca holds a special place in the hearts of the community, representing hope and fresh beginnings. Welcome to the world, baby Lucca. May your life be filled with health, happiness and endless new horizons.

The Hernandez family of Kill Devil Hills welcomes its latest member and the Outer Banks 2026 New Year’s Baby, Lucca. Pictured left to right is Evaline, Lucca, Camila and Elmer.

About Outer Banks Health

Outer Banks Health is a growing health system that provides a range of health and wellness services for our community. Designed especially to meet the health needs of our coastal community, whose year-round population of 35,000 swells to over 250,000 in the summer season, we’re first in the state for patient satisfaction, first in the nation to pilot groundbreaking rural health cancer programs, and the very first to be designated a Dementia Friendly Hospital. We work with our partners, ECU Health and Chesapeake Regional Healthcare, along with other health organizations throughout North Carolina and Virginia, to help our residents and visitors access the best possible care for their diagnosis. Many times we deliver that care right here, close to home.