California: 2 Kids Fatally Hit on Freeway While Retrieving Fallen Luggage; Mother Arrested for DUI

A tragic incident unfolded on a California freeway, resulting in the death of two children and a mother's subsequent arrest, the Independent noted.

The children, a 10-year-old boy and a 16-year-old girl, lost their lives while attempting to retrieve luggage that had fallen onto the 78 Freeway in Vista, near San Diego.

According to authorities, the children had exited a green GMC Yukon SUV, which had pulled over to the side of the road, to retrieve the scattered luggage.

Tragically, the children were struck by vehicles traveling at high speeds on the freeway. The incident occurred around 6:00 pm on Sunday, as confirmed by the Vista Fire Department.

The California Highway Patrol reports that the children were walking on foot within the eastbound traffic lanes of SR-78 when they were hit by a white Nissan Sentra traveling in the same direction.

The two California kids were pronounced deceased on the scene, said the authorities Monday, adding that the family involved in the incident was homeless.

California Mother Arrested

The driver of the green GMC Yukon involved in the tragic incident was 33-year-old Sandra Ortiz from Vista, per ABC News.

The California Highway Patrol arrested Ortiz on multiple felony charges related to the incident, including driving under the influence, gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, and child endangerment.

Ortiz was subsequently booked into the Las Colinas Detention and Reentry Facility in Santee, California, and is currently being held on $500,000 bail.

Her arraignment is scheduled for Thursday at 1:30 pm. However, it is currently still being determined whether she has legal representation.

Meanwhile, the driver of the white Nissan Sentra involved in the collision, a 41-year-old individual whose identity has not been disclosed, remained at the scene and did not report any injuries, according to CHP officials.

The investigation into the incident is ongoing, and authorities urge anyone with information to contact the Oceanside Area California State Highway Patrol.

The impact of this tragic event on the community is significant, and law enforcement continues its efforts to gather all relevant details surrounding the incident. The closure of the affected roadway was necessary for investigators to examine the scene thoroughly. State Route 78, stretching 215 miles from Oceanside to Blythe in Southern California, was reopened around 9:30 pm following the investigation.

Family Mourns the Tragic Death of California Kids

In the aftermath of this heartbreaking tragedy, the family of the two children involved in the incident released a statement through FOX 5.

The statement shared loving memories and highlighted the remarkable qualities of Amy and Alan, the 16-year-old girl and 10-year-old boy who lost their lives.

According to the statement, Amy was a sweet and kind soul with a deep passion for baking. She aspired to become a chef and generously prepared meals for her siblings.

Her warmth, generosity, and love touched the lives of those around her, leaving cherished memories that will forever hold a special place in their hearts.

On the other hand, Alan had dreams of becoming an architect and possessed a unique talent for embroidery work. His dedication and love for his craft were evident as he envisioned a future where he could retire and provide a home for his beloved grandmother.

Alan's selflessness and desire to care for his family were admirable, reflecting his kind and compassionate nature.

To assist the family during this difficult time, a GoFundMe campaign has been established to raise funds for the memorial and funeral expenses.

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Bert Hoover

WATCH: Mom Arrested After 2 Kids Killed On SR-78 - From FOX 5 San Diego