HICKMAN, CA – A mother in California faces charges of murder after allegedly leaving her 4-year-old daughter to perish in a canal following a crash involving an SUV. Officials say the shocking incident occurred when Juliette Acosta, 26, lost control of the vehicle while driving under the influence near Hickman.
The tragedy unfolded on March 8 when the vehicle plummeted into an irrigation canal, partially submerging as her daughter, Reagan Herrin, remained trapped inside. Law enforcement later discovered Acosta taking a bath at the scene rather than aiding her daughter, according to the Stanislaus County District Attorney’s Office.
Acosta’s initial charge of felony drunk driving has been escalated to murder, alongside several other grave charges, following an in-depth investigation.
Prosecutors allege Acosta had a blood alcohol level nearly three times the legal limit. The criminal complaint further claims she abandoned the vehicle without making any effort to assist her child, contributing directly to the girl’s tragic death.
District Attorney Laugero emphasized the profound impact the incident has had on both the family and the local community while underlining the importance of a methodical investigation. Laugero stated that the approach ensures justice is pursued based on verified evidence, adhering strictly to legal and ethical obligations.
In the wake of this tragedy, community support has surged for the victim’s family, particularly for Reagan’s father, Gage Herrin. A friend initiated a GoFundMe campaign, highlighting the family’s gratitude for an outpouring of support. The fundraiser description reveals plans for any surplus donations: to give back to the community in Reagan’s name, hoping to prevent similar incidents in the future.
California Highway Patrol apprehended Acosta in San Francisco last week after an attempt to evade arrest. She was then transferred back to Stanislaus County, where she remains held without the option of bail. If convicted of all charges, she faces the possibility of life imprisonment.
The case has drawn significant attention, stirring conversations about drinking and driving and the responsibilities of parenthood. As the legal proceedings continue, the community seeks justice for young Reagan while grappling with the weight of the tragic circumstances surrounding her death.