Mother loses child to alleged drunk driver - WLOX.com - The News for South Mississippi

Mother loses child to alleged drunk driver: I have no hate in my heart

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By Danielle Thomas - bio | email

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A woman whose husband and daughter were killed in an alleged drunk driving accident wants the man charged in their deaths to know she has no hate in her heart.

A memorial service was held in Biloxi on Saturday for Alex Hernandez and his 5-year-old daughter Ashlin. The two died a week ago after police say their vehicle was struck from behind by a man suspected of driving under the influence.

People brought flowers, balloons and toys in memory of a sweet little girl named Ashlin

Her mother Elizabeth Garcia-Hernandez spoke about the loss of her husband and her only child to Danielle Thomas in her native Spanish tongue.

"She loved life. To see her was the light of my day," said Garcia-Hernandez. "I want everyone to know I love my daughter. I love her with all my heart."

Garcia-Hernandez's husband of eight years, Alex Hernandez, was a hard worker and an avid soccer player. His wife said more than anything he loved his little girl.

"My husband, I told him to change jobs because there are job opportunities where you can earn a better a better salary." said Garcia-Hernandez. "He said 'No. I need to work only from eight in the morning until two in the afternoon because my daughter's bus comes at eight.  I don't want you to be the only one here to greet her when she comes home. I want to be here to welcome my daughter from school.'"

As mourners said goodbye to Alex and Ashlin at a memorial service, their grief was compounded knowing a man has been charged with causing their deaths.

"I want to tell the man that in my heart there is no hate," said Garcia-Hernandez. "If only he hadn't been drunk. He should have done something else but he was under the effects of alcohol."

Garcia-Hernandez is from Mexico and has no other family in the United States. She said she is grateful to everyone who has reached out to her.

Meanwhile, Andrew Good, 25, of Texas is facing two counts of felony DUI causing death. Officials say they are waiting for blood results from the state crime lab.

Meanwhile, a benefit bank account has been set up at Wells Fargo bank. The money is to help Garcia-Hernandez be able to fly her husband and child home to Mexico for burial.

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