Overview
- Brandon Padilla-Aguilera, 26, was arrested at his Barstow home on Oct. 17 following a month-long police investigation into the Sept. 18 flooding incident.
- Police initially booked him on suspicion of murder, while the San Bernardino County District Attorney later filed vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence and child abuse with a special allegation of willful harm resulting in death.
- Padilla-Aguilera pleaded not guilty at his first court appearance, with bail recorded at $200,000 and hearings set for Oct. 27 and Oct. 28 in Victorville.
- Authorities say floodwaters swept the family vehicle into a wash on West Main Street; father and son exited and were separated, the father was rescued from a flood-created island, and 2-year-old Xavier was found deceased the next day in a flood control channel.
- Officials have not detailed the specific evidence behind the charges, with the DA stating the filings reflect what they believe can be proven in court.