Bakersfield, CA — June 29, 2025 – A heartbreaking and deeply disturbing case has emerged out of Bakersfield, California, where 1-year-old Amillio Gutierrez tragically lost his life after being left inside a hot car for nearly two hours. His mother, 20-year-old Maya Hernandez, now faces serious criminal charges following the devastating incident.

According to investigators, Hernandez arrived at a local med spa for a cosmetic procedure on June 29 and allegedly left both of her young children — Amillio and his 2-year-old brother — inside the vehicle while she went in for her appointment. Despite the fact that the spa reportedly allowed children inside the facility, Hernandez made the decision to leave them in the parked car.

The outside temperatures that day were dangerously high, and the car quickly became a deadly environment. Emergency responders later found Amillio Gutierrez unresponsive, with a body temperature of 107°F. He was rushed to the hospital, where medical teams fought to save his life, but the young boy tragically succumbed to heat-related injuries. His older brother survived, though his condition has not been fully disclosed.

The Bakersfield Police Department launched an immediate investigation, and Maya Hernandez was arrested and charged with involuntary manslaughter and child cruelty. She remains in custody on over $1 million bail and is scheduled to appear in court again on July 11.

The case has sent shockwaves through the community and beyond, sparking outrage and sorrow over a death that officials say was entirely preventable. Experts and child safety advocates emphasize that even a few minutes in a hot car can be fatal for young children. Inside a closed vehicle, temperatures can soar to dangerous levels within minutes — a phenomenon made even more dangerous for infants and toddlers whose bodies heat up three to five times faster than adults.

Authorities have reiterated that the med spa in question had no policy against children accompanying their parents, making the decision to leave the boys in the car all the more tragic. It remains unclear why Hernandez chose not to bring them inside.

As the investigation continues, the Gutierrez family and community are left mourning the loss of a life just beginning. A memorial has been started in Amillio’s name, and many are calling for increased public awareness on the dangers of leaving children in vehicles — even for what seems like a short time.

This case serves as a devastating reminder: No cosmetic procedure, errand, or convenience is worth risking a child’s life.

Rest in peace, Amillio Gutierrez.

Your life was far too short, but your memory will not be forgotten.