Anaheim, California – A 24-year-old pregnant woman and her unborn baby were killed early Sunday in a devastating crash in Anaheim after a suspected DUI driver allegedly ran a red light. Family members say the expectant mother had stepped out briefly with her boyfriend to satisfy a late-night pregnancy craving when their lives were forever changed.
Incident Overview
The victim, Bianca Esquivel, was riding in a car driven by her boyfriend shortly after midnight when another vehicle slammed into them at a major Anaheim intersection. Authorities say the collision was caused by a suspected impaired driver, resulting in Esquivel’s death and the loss of her unborn child.
Her family spoke publicly Monday, describing overwhelming grief and shock as they struggled to process the sudden tragedy.
Timeline of Events
According to police, the crash occurred at approximately 12:10 a.m. Sunday at the intersection of North Anaheim Boulevard and State Route 91. Investigators say a Lexus sedan traveling through the intersection ran a red light and struck a Toyota sedan occupied by Esquivel and her boyfriend as they were returning home from an In-N-Out restaurant.
Emergency responders pronounced Esquivel dead at the scene. She was approximately three months pregnant, according to family members.
Details From Police and Officials
The driver of the Lexus, Daniel Ramos, 24, of Riverside, was arrested at the scene. Police reported observing “objective signs and symptoms of impairment” during their initial investigation.
Ramos was booked on charges including felony driving under the influence and vehicular manslaughter. Authorities said additional charges may be filed due to the victim’s pregnancy.
The investigation is being handled by the Anaheim Police Department, which continues to review witness statements and evidence.
Key Facts
- Victim: Bianca Esquivel, 24, pregnant
- Unborn child: Approximately three months gestation
- Suspect: Daniel Ramos, 24, of Riverside
- Charges: Felony DUI, vehicular manslaughter
- Crash time: Around 12:10 a.m. Sunday
- Location: North Anaheim Boulevard & State Route 91
- Other injuries: Boyfriend hospitalized with a broken arm
Witness Accounts and Family Statements
Esquivel’s sister, Viri Esquivel, tearfully described the circumstances leading up to the crash, saying her sister and boyfriend were simply heading home after getting food.
“We weren’t expecting to lose Bianca at such an early age. The baby that was in her womb didn’t have the opportunity to even come to life. That person took that opportunity from that little angel.”
While speaking to reporters, Viri held a tiny pair of baby shoes her sister had purchased ahead of a planned gender reveal party.
The victim’s boyfriend, who requested anonymity, said he is recovering from surgery for a broken arm sustained in the crash. He described Esquivel as more than a partner.
“She was not just my girlfriend, she was my best friend. Our connection was just so different. Our love was different.”
Additional Context: A Family Left Behind
The couple shared a 4-year-old son, who now faces life without his mother. Family members said explaining the loss to the child has been heartbreaking.
“She leaves behind a 4-year-old, and I personally don’t know how to answer ‘Where’s my mommy?’ because his mommy isn’t coming back,” Viri said.
The boyfriend also shared emotional memories of bonding with the unborn baby.
“Even though our baby was just three months in the stomach, I would talk to my baby every time I got home. We’d always be laughing, smiling.”
DUI Awareness and Public Safety
Law enforcement officials stress that suspected DUI crashes remain a leading cause of fatal collisions across California. Impaired driving not only endangers drivers themselves but also innocent families, pedestrians, and unborn children who have no ability to protect themselves.
Police urge drivers to plan ahead by using rideshare services, designated drivers, or public transportation if alcohol or drugs are involved.
Conclusion
What began as a simple late-night food run ended in irreversible loss for one Anaheim family. As investigators continue building the case, loved ones are left mourning two lives lost and a future that will never come.
Anyone who witnessed the crash or has relevant information is encouraged to contact the Anaheim Police Department at 714-765-1900.
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