DUBLIN, Calif. — Authorities say a California woman is facing multiple charges after she allegedly crashed her car and walked away from the scene, leaving behind an injured 1-year-old child.
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) Dublin Office confirmed the disturbing incident in a Facebook post on Tuesday, October 28, noting that the baby was found injured but is expected to recover.
Woman Allegedly Walked Away After Crash
According to the CHP, officers were alerted to a pedestrian walking along Interstate 580 who was later identified as the driver involved in a prior crash.
“Driver arrested after crashing and walking away! Thanks to a thorough investigation and questioning, this pedestrian was contacted on Interstate 580 after walking away from an earlier crash,” the CHP wrote.
After questioning the woman, officers retraced her path and discovered the abandoned child at the crash site.
“The saddest part of the incident is a one-year-old child was left at the scene,” the post stated. “Officers made contact, and after questioning the woman, they backtracked to the scene and located an injured one-year-old child.”
Child Expected to Recover
Officials confirmed that the child will be okay, though the extent of the injuries was not immediately disclosed. The woman’s identity and relationship to the child have not been confirmed at this time.
Authorities said she is now in custody and facing multiple charges, including potential child endangerment and DUI-related offenses, though specific charges have not yet been publicly released, as reported by The People.
Investigation Underway
While the CHP did not specify the cause of the crash, they took the opportunity to remind the public about the dangers of driving under the influence.
“Driving under the influence causes major judgment issues — not only do you put yourself at risk, but you also endanger others,” officials warned.
The agency also emphasized that impairment is not limited to alcohol.
“Prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and cannabis products can all affect a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely,” the post added.
CHP Issues Public Reminder
The CHP Dublin Office concluded their message with a strong reminder for all motorists:
“The CHP reminds all drivers to make responsible choices behind the wheel — never drive under the influence. The mission of the CHP is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security.”
As the investigation continues, authorities are working to determine why the woman left the child behind and what led to the crash on Interstate 580.
What’s your reaction to this heartbreaking story? Should the driver face tougher penalties for abandoning the injured child? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
