BAKERSFIELD, Calif.(KBAK/KBFX) — The trial of Maya Hernandez, a 20-year-old mother from Visalia, continued into its third day as more witnesses took the stand.
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Opening statements were delivered in Kern County Superior Court on Monday, Dec. 8, 2025. (KBAK/KBFX)
Hernandez is accused of leaving her two young children in a hot car while she received a lip filler injection at a Bakersfield medical spa.
The prosecution presented testimony from a forensic pathologist and detectives, detailing the cause and manner of death of one-year-old Amilio Gutierrez, who was found in Hernandez’s vehicle.
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The forensic pathologist testified that Amilio’s death was ruled an accident caused by extreme heat inside the car.
“I chose accident because there was no intent to harm the child,” the pathologist said, explaining that the extreme heat caused Amilio’s brain and lungs to swell, leading to his death.
The Kern County Coroner’s Office confirmed that a 1-year-old Amillio Gutierrez from Visalia died from heat stroke. PHOTO:{ }GoFundMe, KBAK/KBFX
Amilio’s body temperature was recorded at 107 degrees, well above the 104-degree threshold at which the body begins to fail.
The prosecution argued that Hernandez’s choices led to the child’s death.
“We are here because of choices. Choices made by the defendant. Choices made to leave her children in the car. Choices made to put her appearance before her children,” the prosecution stated during opening statements on Monday.
RELATED: Opening statements start in murder trial of mother accused in infant son’s hot car death
Opening statements were delivered in Kern County Superior Court on Monday, Dec. 8, 2025. (KBAK/KBFX)
Video evidence from inside the spa showed Hernandez in the waiting room, frequently checking her Apple Watch, without her children or a stroller.
A detective confirmed that a stroller found in Hernandez’s trunk could have been used to transport children.
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The trial continues as the court examines the evidence and testimonies presented.