NASHVILLE, Tenn (WTVF) — A mother is grieving after her 14-month-old daughter died from her injuries in a hit-and-run crash.
The afternoon of August 16 is one Christina Baker will never forget.
Baker and her Fiancé were driving to Clarksville from Gallatin with little Madilynn in the back. Sumner County officials say that’s when a car pulled around their SUV, hitting them and sending the vehicle into a pond where it flipped on its top.
"They couldn’t get to our daughter, she was under for at least 20 minutes. And I just remember lights and sirens and screaming for my baby," said Baker.
Strangers tried to pull the baby from her car seat but it was difficult. It took 45 minutes Baker says for first responders to resuscitate Madilynn as they airlifted her to Vanderbilt University Medical Center.
"When I saw her my heart dropped into my stomach watching her lay there so lifeless," she said.
Hooked to tubes and monitors, the little girl fought for her life for 11 days.
"I don’t think that’s ever an easy decision for any mom, but I knew that she was going to be in a better place," and Baker.
The family took her off of life support Friday, August 28.
The driver who caused the crash, Michaela Morales, was arrested and charged with DUI 2nd, leaving the scene of an accident, aggravated assault X3, implied consent and vehicular assault. She posted a $45,000 bond on August 19. Morales was re-arrested on Sept. 1 for vehicular homicide with $75,000. bond. She remains in jail.
Baker says her daughter’s death could have been prevented.
"I would have a lot of questions, I would ask her why, why that’s something she felt was ok," said Baker.
She says she’s dealing with a lot of emotions but asks people to show Morales’ family peace for they are hurting as well.
