An eight-year-old boy was killed and his father hospitalized after being struck by a suspected drunk driver with prior DUI convictions on Monday afternoon in Bakersfield.
The Bakersfield Police Department said officers responded around 12:09 p.m. on November 3, 2025, to the 1400 block of East California Avenue for reports of a crash.
During the preliminary investigation, police determined that a black Nissan pickup truck traveling westbound on East California Avenue, just east of Haley Street, suddenly veered off the road for unknown reasons.
The vehicle plowed through a fence and into a parking lot at the northeast corner of the intersection, where a food truck was stationed.
A father and his 8-year-old son, who were in the parking lot at the time, were struck by the pickup.
Both victims were taken to a hospital. The father suffered moderate injuries, while the child was critically injured.
Police confirmed early Tuesday morning that the boy had died from his injuries.
A GoFundMe identified the child as Xxavian Hernandez. The fundraiser described him as “a bright, loving, and joyful little boy who brought light to every room he entered,” and said donations will help cover funeral expenses and support the family.
The driver of the pickup truck, 33-year-old Andres Serna, was determined to be under the influence of alcohol, according to police.
Serna sustained minor injuries and was taken to a hospital for treatment. After his release, authorities said he will be booked into the Lerdo Justice Facility on DUI-related charges.
Because Serna has two prior DUI convictions, police have added a murder charge in connection with the child’s death.
Local food truck Mariscos El Cholo, where the crash occurred, released a statement on social media:
“Due to unforeseen circumstances, Mariscos El Cholo will remain closed until further notice. At this time, our thoughts and prayers are with the individuals and families affected. We deeply appreciate the understanding, love, and respect from our community. We’ll be back soon — stronger than ever, with the same heart and flavor that define us.”
Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact the Bakersfield Police Department at (661) 327-7111.
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