A 6-year-old child, identified as Azmeret, died following a suspected DUI crash in southeast Bakersfield on Sunday morning, September 28, 2025.
According to the Bakersfield Police Department, the crash occurred around 7:41 a.m. at the intersection of Cottonwood Road and E. Panama Lane.
Preliminary investigation revealed that a black sedan allegedly rear-ended a white SUV at high speeds, causing the SUV to roll over and the sedan to veer into a nearby vineyard. The driver of the SUV, a woman, and an infant passenger sustained minor to moderate injuries. The 6-year-old passenger suffered major injuries and was transported to Orange County Children’s Hospital, where they later died.
The driver of the sedan, 20-year-old Cesar Magana, showed signs of impairment and was arrested without incident. He was medically cleared and booked, with charges amended to include gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated.
Authorities continue to investigate the crash.
Don’t Know What To Do After An Accident?
Your safety and rights depend on what you do next after an accident. Remember the following steps if you find yourself in one:
- Check yourself for any injuries.
- Stay on the scene, call 9-1-1, and wait for emergency responders.
- Move your vehicle to the road shoulder if safe; turn on hazard lights.
- Fully cooperate with law enforcement and stay until cleared to leave.
- Document the scene and injuries with photos and videos.
- Seek immediate medical attention.
- Contact your insurance company and find a personal injury lawyer for legal advice.
What A Lawyer Can Do For You
Many victims put off calling a lawyer even if they sustain injuries after an accident. However, lawyers can help you in many ways. They can provide you with police reports, CCTV footage, and witness statements to strengthen your case. Your attorney will also negotiate with insurance companies to get you fair compensation. The best part is that they will do all of these things for you at no upfront cost. So if you’re injured in an accident, hire a personal injury attorney to recover medical bills, car repair costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.