A terrifying scene unfolded at a bustling Fullerton intersection, captured on a viral video that has sparked outrage and led to a mother’s arrest. The footage depicts a 19-month-old child tumbling from a moving SUV, a moment of unimaginable peril unfolding in broad daylight.
The video shows a black SUV making a turn when, without warning, the passenger-side door flew open. A tiny figure was ejected onto the busy roadway, a heart-stopping fall that left onlookers stunned. A trailing vehicle narrowly avoided a collision, screeching to a halt just inches from the vulnerable child.
Incredibly, the SUV immediately stopped, and a woman rushed from the driver’s seat. She scooped up the toddler, quickly placing the child back inside the vehicle before driving away, seemingly attempting to conceal the horrifying incident.
A quick-thinking witness, deeply disturbed by what they had seen, contacted the police and provided crucial details about the vehicle. Investigators swiftly traced the SUV to a home in La Habra, locating both the child and the suspected driver.
The 19-month-old was found to have sustained injuries consistent with the fall. Thankfully, medical professionals are optimistic about a full recovery after the child was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment.
Jacqueline Hernandez, 35, of La Habra, identified as the child’s mother, was arrested and booked on felony child abuse charges. She is currently being held at the Fullerton City Jail as the investigation continues.
Neighbors expressed shock and disbelief, revealing the family has multiple children. One neighbor, speaking anonymously, stated they could not fathom a parent putting their children in such grave danger, emphasizing the unacceptability of the mother’s actions.
Police believe the incident occurred between 8 a.m. and 9 a.m. on January 20th. Remarkably, no emergency calls were received at the time, highlighting the silent shock of those who witnessed the event firsthand.
The investigation is still active, and authorities are urging anyone with additional information regarding this disturbing case to come forward and assist the Fullerton Police Department’s Sensitive Crimes Unit.
