A California mother is facing murder charges after allegedly abandoning her 4-year-old daughter to drown inside a partially submerged SUV following a DUI crash — while she was later found “taking a bath” nearby, authorities say.
Juliette Acosta, 26, was initially charged only with felony drunk driving after the March 8 crash near Hickman, California, which claimed the life of her daughter, Reagan Herrin. However, following further investigation, the Stanislaus County District Attorney’s Office announced Friday that charges had been upgraded dramatically.
Acosta now faces a slew of serious charges, including:
Murder
Vehicular manslaughter
Driving under the influence causing injury
Permitting a child to suffer injury or death
Resisting or obstructing emergency personnel
According to the criminal complaint, Acosta had a blood alcohol content nearly three times the legal limit when she lost control of her vehicle and crashed into an irrigation canal. Prosecutors allege she left her child trapped in the sinking vehicle and failed to provide any aid — choosing instead to bathe nearby while the child remained in danger.
“The charging document includes circumstances in aggravation… including abandoning her child and failing to render aid,” prosecutors wrote.
District Attorney Jeff Laugero called the case “significant and deeply tragic,” stressing that justice requires a careful and evidence-based approach.
“Our responsibility to both the victim and the integrity of our legal system requires a thorough investigation,” Laugero said. “Justice requires our absolute adherence to these standards.”
Meanwhile, the community has rallied around Gage Herrin, the child’s father. A GoFundMe campaign set up in his name received an outpouring of donations and support.
“Any remaining funds will be donated back to the community on Reagan’s behalf,” the fundraiser states, adding that the family is “overwhelmed” by the public’s compassion.
Acosta was arrested last week in San Francisco after allegedly trying to evade capture. She was transported back to Stanislaus County by the California Highway Patrol and is currently being held without bail.
If convicted on all counts, Acosta faces life in prison.