Mom left 2-year-old daughter to drown in partially submerged car after DUI crash, cops say

In a tragic incident near Hickman, California, 26-year-old Juliette Marie Acosta has been charged with murder following the death of her 4-year-old daughter, Reagan Herrin. Authorities allege that Acosta, driving with a blood alcohol level nearly three times the legal limit, crashed her SUV into an irrigation canal on March 8. Prosecutors claim that after the crash, Acosta left the partially submerged vehicle without attempting to rescue her daughter, who was trapped inside. She was later found at a nearby residence. ​

Emergency responders, aided by Reagan’s uncle who lived nearby, managed to pull the child from the submerged vehicle. Despite their efforts, Reagan succumbed to her injuries the following day at a local hospital. ​

Initially arrested for felony drunk driving, Acosta’s charges have since been elevated to include murder, vehicular manslaughter, and child endangerment. She was apprehended in San Francisco after allegedly attempting to flee and is currently being held without bail.

Acosta’s attorney disputes the prosecution’s narrative, particularly the claim that she took a bath after the crash. He argues that the timeline makes such an action implausible and cautions against misinformation that could prejudice the case. ​

The case has garnered significant public attention, with many expressing outrage over the circumstances leading to Reagan’s death. A GoFundMe campaign established to support Reagan’s father has raised over $22,000, reflecting the community’s grief and solidarity. ​

As the legal proceedings continue, the community awaits further developments in this heartbreaking case.