After-School Program Hit By Car: Video Shows Horrific Scene, Four Children Killed

Kenji Nakamura

5 min read

Post on Apr 30, 2025

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Details of the After-School Program Accident

The accident occurred on Tuesday, October 24th, at approximately 3:15 PM, just as children were being dismissed from the Sunshine Kids After-School Program located at 14 Elm Street, Oakhaven, CA. A speeding SUV, driven by 28-year-old Maria Hernandez, careened onto the sidewalk, striking a group of children. Four children – two boys aged 8 and 10, and two girls aged 9 and 11 – were killed instantly. Several other children sustained injuries, ranging from minor scrapes to serious fractures. Hernandez was unharmed but is currently undergoing a psychological evaluation.

• Exact location of the after-school program: 14 Elm Street, Oakhaven, CA. This is a residential area with limited sidewalks and no designated crosswalks near the program's entrance.
• Number of children involved in total: 12 children were present at the dismissal; 8 were injured to varying degrees.
• Description of the surrounding area: The area around the after-school program lacks adequate pedestrian safety measures. Visibility is limited due to parked cars and overgrown bushes.
• Any prior safety concerns at the location: Local residents had previously voiced concerns about speeding vehicles and the lack of pedestrian safety features in the area to city officials, but no action had been taken prior to the accident.

The Disturbing Video Footage

A bystander's cell phone video of the accident has circulated widely on social media, capturing the horrifying moment the SUV hit the children. While the video itself is deeply disturbing, it clearly shows the speed of the vehicle and the chaotic aftermath. The source of the video has not been publicly identified. The video's dissemination has understandably caused significant distress within the community, prompting concerns about its potential to retraumatize witnesses and the families of the victims.

• Brief description of the video's key moments (avoid graphic details): The video shows the SUV accelerating unexpectedly and striking the group of children. The immediate aftermath depicts a scene of chaos and screams.
• Impact on social media and public response: The video has gone viral, leading to widespread outrage and calls for justice and improved safety. Many social media users are demanding stricter penalties for reckless driving and improved safety measures around schools.
• Concerns regarding the video’s dissemination and potential for further trauma: Concerns have been raised about the potential psychological impact of the widely shared video on witnesses, survivors, and the community at large.

Community Response and Grief

The Oakhaven community is mourning the loss of the four children. Vigils have been held nightly at the site of the accident, with residents leaving flowers, candles, and teddy bears. A GoFundMe page has been established to support the families of the victims and to cover the medical expenses of the injured children. Local mental health organizations are providing grief counseling and support services to those affected.

• Examples of community support and expressions of grief: Local businesses are donating goods and services, and volunteers are offering assistance to the affected families. Numerous memorials and tributes have sprung up online and throughout the community.
• Details about memorial services and fundraising initiatives: Memorial services are being planned for the four victims, and the GoFundMe page has already raised a significant amount of money.
• Information about available mental health resources: Oakhaven's Community Mental Health Center is providing free counseling and support groups for anyone impacted by the tragedy.

Calls for Increased Safety Measures After the After-School Program Tragedy

In the wake of this tragedy, calls for increased safety measures around schools and after-school programs are growing louder. Proposals include reducing speed limits near schools, installing more crosswalks and pedestrian signals, and improving visibility around school zones. The city council is currently considering emergency legislation to implement these safety enhancements.

• Specific suggestions for improving safety (e.g., increased speed limits, improved crossings): Proposals include installing speed bumps, creating designated pedestrian zones, and increasing police patrols during dismissal times.
• Proposed legislation or policy changes: The city is exploring options for stricter penalties for reckless driving near schools and investing in improved infrastructure for pedestrian safety.
• Resources for driver education and pedestrian safety: The city is planning a public awareness campaign focused on driver education and pedestrian safety, emphasizing the importance of caution near schools.

Ongoing Investigation and Legal Proceedings

The Oakhaven Police Department is conducting a thorough investigation into the accident. Hernandez, the driver, has been arrested and charged with four counts of vehicular manslaughter. Further charges may be filed pending the outcome of the investigation. The families of the victims are expected to file civil lawsuits against Hernandez and potentially the city of Oakhaven for negligence.

• Current status of the investigation: The investigation is ongoing, with police reviewing traffic camera footage and interviewing witnesses.
• Details of any charges filed against the driver: Hernandez has been charged with four counts of vehicular manslaughter, and further charges are possible.
• Potential legal ramifications for the parties involved: Several lawsuits are anticipated, including civil suits against the driver and potentially the city for inadequate safety measures.

Conclusion:

This horrific after-school program accident underscores the critical need for enhanced safety measures to protect our children. The devastating loss of life and the widespread community grief demand immediate action. We must advocate for stricter traffic laws near schools, improved infrastructure for pedestrian safety, and comprehensive driver education programs. Let's work together to prevent future after-school program accidents and ensure the safety of our children. Contact your local representatives and demand safer environments for our children. Learn more about how you can support improved after-school program safety in your community.