Mom Claimed She Was En Route to Get Baby During DUI Stop as Cops Found Infant in Car: Cops

A Texas mother was arrested over the weekend after she was caught driving under the influence with her 5-month-old baby in the back seat of her vehicle. The incident unfolded early on Sunday, April 6, 2025, when Ivana Dolores Salazar, 27, was stopped by deputies in El Paso after failing to signal while changing lanes.

The Traffic Stop and Discovery

At around 1:28 a.m., El Paso County Sheriff’s deputies pulled over a black Mercedes driven by Salazar in the 3900 block of Rich Beem Boulevard. During the stop, Salazar reportedly told deputies that she was on her way to pick up her infant after recently finishing work. However, deputies became suspicious when they noticed a clear glass cup containing a red liquid in the car, prompting them to suspect that Salazar may have been drinking while driving. Just before being arrested, Salazar allegedly insisted that she was the only person in the vehicle. However, when deputies searched the car after her arrest, they made a startling discovery. Salazar’s 5-month-old baby was found in the back seat, sitting in a car seat that was not properly secured. Salazar was initially unaware that her child was in the car, as she had just claimed she was on her way to pick up the baby.

Salazar’s Reaction and the Baby’s Condition

When deputies confronted Salazar with the discovery of her child, she became uncooperative and stated that she didn’t know the baby was already in the vehicle. Authorities took immediate action, and paramedics from El Paso Fire Medical Services transported the baby to The Hospitals of Providence East Campus for a medical evaluation. Thankfully, the child was not reported to have any injuries or signs of distress.

Child Protective Services and Arrest

Child Protective Services (CPS) were called to the scene and took custody of the baby. After the evaluation, the child was released into the care of a responsible party, ensuring the child’s safety and well-being. Salazar, who was charged with driving while intoxicated with a passenger under the age of 15 and endangering a child, was taken to the El Paso County Jail. Her bond was set at $23,000, but she was later released on her recognizance that day.

Community Concerns and Legal Consequences

This case raises concerns about the safety of children in vehicles, especially in situations where drivers are intoxicated. Salazar’s actions not only put her child at risk by driving under the influence but also endangered the baby by improperly securing the car seat. Law enforcement and child welfare organizations continue to stress the importance of responsible driving and child safety in vehicles. Authorities are continuing to investigate the case, and Salazar will likely face legal repercussions for her actions.