A 26‑year‑old California father, Brandon Padilla‑Aguilera of Barstow, was arrested last week after police say he drove his white sedan through a flooded street, causing his 2‑year‑old autistic son, Xavier, to drown. The incident happened on September 18, the day the family was returning home from the mother’s funeral.
While crossing a flooded road in a storm, the car slowly filled with water. Padilla‑Aguilera pulled out with Xavier but the rushing floodwater pulled the toddler away before he could be rescued. Xavier’s body was recovered the next day in a nearby flood‑control channel.
Barstow Police and the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department responded after the family reported the emergency. An arrest warrant was issued after a monthlong investigation that included witness interviews and evidence review. The suspect was taken into custody and booked on suspicion of murder.
The San Bernardino County District Attorney’s Office filed charges on Tuesday, citing one count of vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence and a second count of child abuse that could have caused great bodily injury or death.
The case highlights the danger of driving through flooded areas, especially during severe weather. Authorities urge drivers to avoid flood‑impacted roads and seek alternate routes. The tragic loss of Xavier has shocked the local community, and the courts will decide the outcome of the charges.
Source: New York Post
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