An Arizona couple is facing criminal charges months after floodwaters swept away the vehicle they were in, killing their two children and niece.

AZFamily reported that Daniel Rawlings is facing reckless manslaughter charges. Rawlings, along with his wife, Lacey Rawlings, is also facing seven counts of child abuse for trying to cross Tonto Creek despite warnings of overflooding.

The November 29 incident resulted in the death of their son and daughter, Colby and Willa Rawlings, 6 and 5, and their niece, Austin Rawlings, 5,

Floodwaters swept away the couple, their four children, and their three nieces as they attempted to pass the flooded Bar X crossing in a military-style vehicle. Reports indicated that Daniel Rawlings was driving the vehicle at the time.

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A flood warning was reportedly issued for the Tonto Basin area on the morning of the deadly incident. Authorities said the creek crossing was marked as closed with barricades and signs.

All three children’s bodies were recovered following a month-long search.

It’s not immediately known what led authorities to file criminal charges more than four months later.

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[Featured image: [L to R] Colby, Willa & Austin Rawlings/GoFundMe]