A Florida couple is facing several charges after deputies reportedly found them inside a U-Haul van with two young children and what authorities allege was a stash of drugs. The discovery came after someone called 911 about two people who appeared to be unresponsive inside a parked moving van at a Tampa gas station.
Deputies arrived at the gas station on North Dale Mabry Highway and found 46-year-old Vilmarie Acosta Diaz in the passenger seat and 44-year-old Arian Hernandez behind the wheel. Things took a turn when the van suddenly started rolling forward as officers approached. Deputies reportedly had to step in and order Hernandez to stop the vehicle.
According to a probable cause affidavit detailed by Us Weekly, both adults appeared heavily intoxicated and disoriented when they woke up. Hernandez reportedly had bloodshot, glossy eyes and could barely keep his balance when he got out. Deputies arrested him on suspicion of driving under the influence.
They were allegedly found in possession of methamphetamine
Diaz also reportedly attracted the officers’ attention when she stepped out of the passenger seat. A baggie containing what appeared to be a white crystalline substance was allegedly sitting in plain sight. Cops said their tests identified it as methamphetamine.
But that wasn’t the only thing deputies said they found inside the U-Haul. A search of the cargo area allegedly revealed that it had been turned into a makeshift living space. Two young children were inside and the authorities claim that neither of them was secured in a child safety seat. Investigators also allegedly found loose prescription muscle relaxers and drug paraphernalia within reach of the children.
Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister says he took issue with what deputies found. Addressing the incident in a statement to local media, he accused the adults of putting the children in danger. “There is no excuse for this. Two children, no car seats, drugs within arm’s reach, and an impaired driver behind the wheel. These kids deserved better,” he said.
Authorities handed custody of the two children to a relative
Authorities reportedly contacted a relative, who came to the gas station and took custody of the children. Diaz was subsequently booked on several felony charges, including two counts of child abuse without great bodily harm, possession of a controlled substance, and possession of drug paraphernalia. Hernandez faces additional charges related to driving under the influence and child endangerment.
Published: Nov 12, 2026 04:30 am