Juliette Acosta and Reagan Herrin: A Mother’s Alleged DUI Leads to Daughter’s Tragic Death in California Canal
On the night of March 8, 2025, a tragic incident unfolded near Hickman, California, involving 26-year-old Juliette Marie Acosta and her 4-year-old daughter, Reagan Herrin. The event has since garnered significant media attention and public discourse.
The Incident
At approximately 11:05 p.m., Juliette Acosta was driving her Subaru SUV southbound on Arlberg Road when the vehicle veered off the road, sideswiped a telephone pole, crossed Canal Bank Road, and entered an irrigation canal. The SUV became fully submerged in the waterway.
Acosta’s uncle, who lived nearby, heard the crash and rushed to the scene. He managed to rescue Acosta from the vehicle. However, her daughter, Reagan, remained trapped inside. A Stanislaus County Sheriff’s deputy arrived shortly after and entered the frigid water to rescue the child with assistance from Acosta’s uncle. Reagan was transported to Memorial Medical Center but tragically succumbed to her injuries the following day citeturn0search1turn0search3.
Juliette Acosta’s Arrest and Charges
Following the incident, Juliette Acosta was arrested on suspicion of felony DUI. Authorities reported that she displayed signs of intoxication at the scene. She was booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center. Acosta faces several charges, including:
- Gross Vehicular Manslaughter While Intoxicated
- Child Endangerment
- DUI with Bodily Injury
- DUI with a Blood Alcohol Concentration over 0.08%
Her bail amount has not been disclosed, and she remains in custody pending further legal proceedings citeturn0search5.
Legal Proceedings and Defense
Juliette Acosta’s attorney, Gil Somera, has contested the allegations, particularly the claim that Acosta left the scene to take a bath. Somera argues that the timeline of events does not support this assertion and maintains that Acosta had no intention of fleeing the scene citeturn0news13.
The legal proceedings are ongoing, and Acosta is expected to appear in court to answer to the charges.
Community and Media Reaction
The incident has sparked widespread media coverage and public debate. A GoFundMe campaign for Reagan’s father has raised over $22,000, reflecting the community’s support during this difficult time citeturn0news12.
Conclusion
The case of Juliette Acosta and Reagan Herrin serves as a poignant reminder of the potential consequences of driving under the influence. As the legal process unfolds, the community continues to mourn the loss of young Reagan and awaits justice.
