California mother arrested for DUI crash that killed her 2 young children

A tragic incident occurred in California where a mother, Yesica Barajas, was allegedly driving under the influence and speeding when she crashed her car, resulting in the death of her two young children. The heartbreaking accident took place as Barajas lost control of her vehicle while exiting Highway 29 in Napa and collided with a tree at a high speed early Sunday morning.

Barajas’s son, Damien Montanez, aged 10, and daughter, Aaliyah Montanez, aged 9, were both tragically pronounced dead at the scene of the crash. The mother sustained major injuries and was rushed to Napa’s Queen of the Valley Hospital, where she was charged with suspicion of driving under the influence by the California Highway Patrol.

Authorities suspect that alcohol, speed, and drugs may have played a significant role in the fatal crash. CHP Sargent Andrew Barclay stated, “There’s a lot going into this. It will be an ongoing investigation.” Barajas, who is still recovering in the hospital, will remain in CHP custody until she is medically cleared to be transferred to Napa County Jail. Her bail has been set at $500,000.

The devastating loss of the two young children has sent shockwaves through the community. Gabriel Cardenas, who laid flowers at the crash site, described the children’s deaths as a “total tragedy for the community.” Family friend Angela Villasenor expressed the family’s devastation over the loss, emphasizing that no one could have been prepared for such a tragedy.

Damien and Aaliyah are remembered as vibrant and loving children who touched the lives of everyone they met. They enjoyed camping in Lake Tahoe with their grandparents and were active members of the Napa Valley Unified School District. The district has offered counseling and support to students and staff during this difficult time.

The family is currently mourning the loss of the siblings, and a GoFundMe page has been set up to assist with funeral expenses. Villasenor described Damien and Aaliyah as sweet, loving, and full of life, emphasizing the impact they had on those around them. The community continues to grieve the loss of two young lives taken too soon in a tragic and preventable accident.