Mother Arrested After Toddler Falls from Moving SUV in California

Jacqueline Hernandez faces felony child abuse charges after 19-month-old child fell from her vehicle in Fullerton intersection.

Jan. 28, 2026 at 4:47pm

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A 25-year-old California mother has been arrested on felony child abuse charges after her 19-month-old child fell out of her moving SUV in the middle of a busy Fullerton intersection. The incident, which was captured on video, shows the child falling to the ground as the vehicle completes a turn, with the mother then stopping and retrieving the child before driving away. The child was transported to a hospital and is expected to recover.

Why it matters

This incident raises serious concerns about child safety and parental responsibility, particularly around the use of vehicles. It also highlights the importance of bystander intervention and the role that video evidence can play in holding individuals accountable for their actions.

The details

According to police, the incident occurred on January 20th between 8-9 AM local time in Fullerton, California. Jacqueline Hernandez, the 25-year-old mother, was driving her SUV through an intersection when the front passenger door opened and the 19-month-old child fell out onto the road. Hernandez immediately stopped the vehicle, retrieved the child, and then drove away. The child sustained injuries consistent with the fall but is expected to make a full recovery.

  • The incident occurred on January 20, 2026 between 8-9 AM local time.
  • Hernandez was arrested on January 26, 2026.

The players

Jacqueline Hernandez

A 25-year-old California resident who was arrested and charged with felony child abuse after her 19-month-old child fell from her moving SUV.

Fullerton Police Department

The law enforcement agency that investigated the incident, arrested Hernandez, and shared video footage of the event on social media.

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What they’re saying

“The SUV immediately stops, nearly causing a traffic collision with the vehicle behind it. An adult female is then seen running from the driver's side of the SUV, picking up the child, and returning to the vehicle before the video ends.”

— Fullerton Police Department

What’s next

The Orange County District Attorney's Office will determine whether to formally file charges against Jacqueline Hernandez.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a tragic reminder of the importance of proper child safety measures when operating a vehicle, and the potential legal consequences for parents who fail to protect their children. It also highlights the role that bystander intervention and video evidence can play in holding individuals accountable for their actions.