Xieng Her was in court today and pleaded not guilty to killing Nancy Naranjo and her 9-month-old Joshua Bonton. The accident occurred last Sunday.

Xieng Her was charged with gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated without malice, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol resulting in injury, and driving under the influence at .08 blood alcohol causing death or injury, all felonies. Her’s bail was set at $250,000.

Twenty-three-year-old Nancy Naranjo and 9-month-old Joshua Bonton died then they were hit from behind by Xieng Her. California Highway Patrol Officer Michael Bradley said it appeared Her was driving at a high rate of speed. He also said the victims most likely died instantly.

Naranjo’s family was angry at Her’s not guilty plea. “Not guilty?, said Naranjo’s aunt, Ana Castillo, “Be a man and confess what you did. I don’t understand how you can say not guilty? Two lives, they were just beginning.”

Xieng Her’s next court hearing was scheduled for Sept. 9 in Sacramento County Superior Court.