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Orange County Mother Arrested After Viral Video Shows Baby Falling From Moving Car
A disturbing dashcam video showing a toddler falling out of a moving SUV vehicle in Southern California has led to the arrest of an Orange County mother on felony child abuse charges. The incident, which occurred in Fullerton, has sparked widespread outrage online and prompted renewed concerns about child safety in vehicles.
Dashcam Video Captures Frightening Moment
According to the Fullerton Police Department, the now-viral video depicts a 19-month-old child falling from the front passenger side of a moving SUV at the intersection of North Euclid Street and West Malvern Avenue. As the vehicle makes a turn, the front passenger door appears to be ajar, causing the child to tumble onto the roadway.
In the footage, an adult woman is seen stopping the SUV, rushing from the driver’s side, picking up the child from the street, and returning to the vehicle before driving away. Police say the incident occurred on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, between 8 and 9 a.m.
Witness Comes Forward After Video Circulates
Authorities said they became aware of the incident after the video began circulating online. A witness later came forward on January 24, providing key identifying information about the vehicle involved. Investigators followed up on the tip and were able to locate the SUV, the child, and the woman at a residence in La Habra.
On Monday, police arrested Jacqueline Marie Hernandez, 35, the child’s mother, and booked her into the Fullerton City Jail on suspicion of felony child abuse.
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Child Injured but Expected to Recover
Police confirmed that the toddler sustained injuries consistent with the fall and was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. Officials said the child is expected to make a full recovery, though the incident has raised serious questions about how the child was secured inside the vehicle.
Investigators have not yet disclosed whether the child was in a car seat at the time of the incident or why the passenger door was open while the SUV was in motion.
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Ongoing Investigation and Public Appeal
The Fullerton Police Department’s Sensitive Crimes Unit is continuing to investigate the case. Authorities are asking anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has additional information to come forward.
“This type of incident is extremely serious and could have had a tragic outcome,” police said in a statement, emphasising the importance of proper child restraints and vehicle safety measures.
The case has reignited online debates around child safety laws, parental responsibility, and the dangers of distracted or negligent driving. Many social media users expressed shock that the child survived the fall, while others called for stricter enforcement of child protection statutes.
As the investigation continues, the viral video serves as a stark reminder of how quickly a routine drive can turn into a life-threatening situation—especially when basic safety precautions fail.
