Two Children Killed In California Freeway Accident, Mother Arrested 

Two young lives were lost on a California freeway in a devastating accident on Sunday evening. Sandra Ortiz, their 33-year-old mother, now finds herself facing the weight of grief and legal consequences as she grapples with the loss of her children.

Mom arrested after 2 kids are killed running onto busy freeway to chase luggage https://t.co/wFfJSjELQX pic.twitter.com/AL90fQSBKj

— New York Post (@nypost) June 19, 2023

The incident occurred on the eastbound side of the 78 Freeway, near the city of Vista, north of San Diego, California. At approximately 6 p.m. that evening, the two children, a 10-year-old boy and a 16-year-old girl, exited their vehicles to get something, meeting their death. Their identities have not yet been disclosed publicly.

Ortiz had been driving her green GMC Yukon SUV when a suitcase suddenly flew off the vehicle. Concerned for their belongings, the children exited the SUV to retrieve the fallen suitcases after their mother pulled onto the righthand shoulder. Meanwhile, Ortiz remained in the vehicle as her children ventured into the flow of highway traffic

As they attempted to get the suitcases, a white Nissan Sentra, traveling at full speed, struck the unsuspecting youngsters. The driver of the Nissan, a 41-year-old woman from Vista, remained at the scene, providing assistance until authorities arrived. As the investigation continues, no charges have been filed against her and Deputy Fire Chief of Vista Brett Davidson has said that she appeared to be upset by the incident.

However, authorities found Ortiz’s involvement in the ordeal culpable as they arrested her on suspicion of driving under the influence. She also faces grave charges of gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated and child endangerment.

Ortiz was taken to Las Colinas Detention and Reentry Facility in Santee, California. She is being held on a $500,000 bail pending her initial court appearance on Thursday.

Authorities say they are conducting a thorough investigation to unravel the details surrounding this heart-wrenching incident that led to the loss of two innocent lives. Meanwhile, the family of the bereaved spoke to KGTV, expressing their grief.

“Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the tragic loss of our beloved children, Amy and Alan,” they said in a statement, asking for “continued support and prayers” as they try to find strength in this time of their lives.