Victorville, CA — A Serrano High School student and Mesa Linda Park soccer player was seriously injured after gunfire broke out outside the Cinemark 16 theater at the Mall of Victor Valley on Sunday, Dec. 21, 2025.
The shooting occurred at approximately 6:39 p.m. near the food court entrance closest to the theater at 14400 Mall Boulevard.
According to the family’s GoFundMe and statements provided to authorities, Victoria Hernandez was at the mall to watch a movie when a fight among several juveniles escalated, and shots were fired.
Victoria was struck in the stomach and grazed on the arm. She was rushed into emergency surgery and is now recovering in the hospital; family statements say she is expected to survive but will face a lengthy recovery.
David Hernandez, Victoria’s father and the organizer of the family’s GoFundMe, asked the community for help with medical bills and household expenses while the family remains at the hospital.
In the fundraiser post, he described his daughter as “an innocent bystander” and praised her as “an all-star soccer player” known for her “amazing heart and pure soul.”
“She is known to everyone for her amazing heart and pure soul. She’s a very loving girl and always wants to make people happy, no matter what,” he added.
He said the family is missing work to be at her bedside, and any assistance would be appreciated.
San Bernardino County Sheriff’s dispatchers initially received reports of multiple juveniles fighting at the mall.
The confrontation quickly turned violent, and deputies, assisted by CHP Victorville, evacuated the mall and secured the scene.
Several glass windows at the Cinemark were broken by stray bullets.
The mall did reopen the next day, but the theater remained closed for repairs and patrons with affected tickets were told to contact Cinemark.
At the time of writing, Sheriff’s officials made no arrests and made no further details about possible suspects.
Investigators are reviewing security footage and interviewing witnesses. Authorities asked anyone with information or video to contact the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.
Community Asks for Answers
Community reaction poured in on social media, mixing shock, prayers and calls for accountability.
Christy Cordell wrote, “There’s video of the shooter. They, and their family, need to take some responsibility for their actions in this situation!”
Stella Acosta Marquez posted, “She did not deserve that… May you be on your way to recovery. I’m sorry that happened to you. You will rise above.”
Rashida Ross, who said she was at the mall the day before, added: “I pray she has a speedy successful recovery and receive all the justice that’s due her.”
Several commenters raised concerns about mall security and teen violence.
Maria Gonzalez urged the mall to increase visible security, writing, “Security should be outside the main entrance or at least roaming outside. It’s so sad that kids can’t be kids and be out without something bad happening.”
Vicki Jaramillo Robles said metal detectors or stricter controls should be considered. Other neighbors expressed fear and heartbreak that the incident happened so close to the holidays.
Classmates and teammates offered support. A Serrano High freshman who shares P.E. class with Victoria called her “such a sweetheart” and said she was “genuinely so, so sorry.”
Teammates from the Mesa Linda Park program have posted messages of support and offered to help the family where they can.
Local leaders and law enforcement say they are monitoring the situation and have stepped up patrols at shopping centers.
Community advocates urged parents and schools to talk with teens about conflict resolution and the dangers of carrying weapons.
The Hernandez family has asked for privacy while Victoria recovers. Those who want to assist can find the fundraiser organized by David Hernandez.
“Please help our family through this tough time as we navigate these days in the hospital and unfortunately miss work to be here for her and my other kids, also to help with her recovery.”
“If you please find it in your hearts to help with anything, it is really appreciated,” concluded David Hernandez.
Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to contact the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.
