A California woman has been arrested after a disturbing video showed her infant falling from a moving vehicle and narrowly avoiding being run over by her SUV. Jacqueline Hernandez, 35, of La Habra, faces felony child abuse charges following the incident that occurred on January 20 in Fullerton, California.
The Incident
According to the Fullerton Police Department, the incident took place between 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. at the intersection of North Euclid Street and West Malvern Avenue. Police were not initially aware of the incident, but a witness came forward on January 24 with video footage capturing the shocking moment.
In the video, a black SUV can be seen turning at the intersection when the front passenger door swings open. The 19-month-old child then falls onto the roadway, narrowly missing being run over by the vehicle. The mother, identified as Hernandez, quickly stops the SUV, exits the vehicle, and picks up the child before returning to the driver’s seat and driving away.
Near Miss with Another Vehicle
The situation became even more dangerous when a second car, a light-colored vehicle, almost struck the child after the mother had narrowly avoided running over the infant. The driver of the second car slammed on the brakes, while a yellow car behind it swerved to avoid colliding with the other vehicles.
Investigation and Arrest
Following the witness’s report, Fullerton police were able to trace the vehicle involved in the incident to Hernandez’s residence in La Habra. Officers found the vehicle, the child, and Hernandez at the location. The baby, who suffered injuries consistent with the fall, was transported to an area hospital but is expected to make a full recovery.
Hernandez was arrested on suspicion of felony child abuse. It is not yet known if she has retained an attorney.
Child Safety Laws in California
Under California law, children under 2 years old must be secured in a rear-facing car seat unless they meet specific height or weight requirements. Additionally, children must remain in the back seat until they are at least 8 years old.
This incident raises serious concerns about child safety in vehicles and the importance of following proper car seat guidelines to prevent such dangerous situations.
Ongoing Investigation
The Fullerton Police Department continues to investigate the incident. Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact Detective H. Rios from the Sensitive Crimes Unit at (714) 738-6782 or via email at [email protected].
