19-Month-Old Child Falls from Moving SUV in California

Mother arrested on felony child abuse charge after video shows toddler falling from vehicle

Jan. 27, 2026 at 11:07am

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A 35-year-old mother from La Habra, California has been arrested on a felony child abuse charge after video footage showed her 19-month-old child falling from the passenger side of a moving SUV at a busy intersection. The toddler sustained injuries but is expected to make a full recovery.

Why it matters

This incident raises serious concerns about child safety and parental responsibility, particularly when operating a vehicle with young children present. It also highlights the importance of seatbelt and car seat usage to prevent such tragic accidents.

The details

The incident was captured on video, which shows the toddler falling from the SUV as it was making a turn at a busy intersection. The vehicle immediately stopped, nearly causing a collision with the car behind it. The mother was then seen running from the driver's side to pick up the child and return to the vehicle.

  • The incident is believed to have occurred on January 20, 2026 between 8 a.m. and 9 a.m.

The players

Jacqueline Hernandez

A 35-year-old woman from La Habra, California who was arrested on a felony child abuse charge in relation to the incident.

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What they’re saying

“Officers conducted a follow-up investigation, which led them to a residence in the City of La Habra. Officers located the vehicle, the child, and the female involved in the incident seen in the video.”

— Fullerton Police Department

What’s next

The investigation remains ongoing, and police are urging more witnesses to come forward with any information about the incident.

The takeaway

This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of proper child safety measures when driving, and the need for heightened awareness and responsibility from parents to ensure the wellbeing of their children.