The Bakersfield community is reeling after a devastating crash claimed the life of 6-year-old Azmeret, who died from injuries sustained in a collision involving a suspected drunk driver. The accident happened Sunday morning, September 28, along Panama Lane near Cottonwood Road.
Azmeret was transported to Orange County Children’s Hospital, where she fought for her life but passed away on Monday morning. Her mother, Jacqueline, and her baby brother, Elliot, were also injured in the crash. Both are now recovering.
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Authorities have arrested 20-year-old Cesar Magana, who is accused of driving under the influence at the time of the crash. Magana is facing multiple charges, including gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated. He is being held on bail exceeding $400,000 and could make his first court appearance as early as this week.
This tragedy adds to a disturbing trend in Bakersfield. According to figures from the law firm Chain, Cohn, Clark, 24 people have died in DUI-related crashes so far this year—ten more than all of last year. Matt Clark, a partner at the firm, called the number “record-breaking for our community,” noting that it surpasses anything seen in recent years.
In light of the alarming rise in DUI deaths, Chain, Cohn, Clark launched a petition earlier this year calling for stricter DUI laws. Since March, the petition has gathered more than 6,000 signatures, with a goal of reaching 10,000.
For Azmeret’s family, the statistics are now painfully personal. What was supposed to be an ordinary Sunday turned into a life-shattering tragedy, leaving loved ones and neighbors grieving the loss of a child whose future was stolen far too soon.