Mother Dies, Six Children Injured In Fireworks Show Accident
KABC – The Fourth of July was marred by an accident in Valencia that left a mother dead and six children injured on Sunday.
Authorities said a crowd had gathered at Westfield Valencia Town Center to watch a fireworks show when a car ran a red light shortly before 10 p.m. The car plowed into another vehicle, and one of the vehicles jumped the curb and plowed into the crowd of adults and children.
“My step dad and a bunch of guys picked the car up and moved it off to the side to get it off all the kids,” said witness Scott Schubert.
A 43-year-old woman, identified as Matilda Garnica, was killed, police said.
Six children, ranging in age from 5 to 12, were taken to local hospitals for treatment. A 12-year-old boy was airlifted to Childrens Hospital Los Angeles for a severe head injury. Officials said he is in critical condition.
Authorities said the other children suffered non-life-threatening injuries.
The driver of the car that ran the red light was not taken into police custody, but police still want to hear from anyone who witnessed the accident. It is unknown if the driver will face any charges. Anyone with information is urged to call the Santa Clarita Sheriff’s Station at (661) 255-1121.
