A former San Diego television journalist, who previously worked for prominent Spanish-language networks, stands accused of carrying out two separate shootings at a scenic mountain overlook, allegedly targeting victims based on their ethnicity. Ricardo Berron, 46, a former reporter for Univision and Telemundo stations, was arrested on March 10 at San Diego International Airport, according to the San Diego County Sheriff's Office.
Charges and Allegations
Berron has been charged with two counts of assault with a deadly weapon in connection with the attacks, which occurred months apart on Palomar Mountain. Prosecutors are also seeking hate crime enhancements, as reported by Fox5, highlighting the racially motivated nature of the alleged incidents.
Authorities state that the shootings happened at the same location but involved different victims. The first incident took place on October 6, 2025, around 9:30 p.m., when Joseph Valentino was shot in the arm while sitting in his car at the overlook.
Victim's Account
"I looked over my left shoulder and saw the silhouette of somebody holding a rifle at my head and wearing a hoodie," Valentino told KUSI shortly after the incident. "I raised my hands and asked him not to shoot. He asked me if I was Mexican. I responded yes. At that point, I saw him zero in on my head, and instinctively turned to the right. I heard the shot. It missed my face and caught my arm."
Valentino managed to speed away after the encounter, with a second shot hitting his rear tire. He reached a nearby home to call for help, and deputies and paramedics arrived about an hour later. He was taken to Palomar Medical Center, where doctors saved his arm despite severe injuries from the gunshot.
Second Shooting Incident
Then, on February 23, a second man reported being approached while stargazing on the mountain. According to the sheriff's office, during the interaction, the suspect produced a handgun and fired a single round through the driver's side window while the victim was seated inside his vehicle. The suspect then fled the scene in a vehicle, and the victim was not hurt. The second alleged victim also stated that the suspect asked about his ethnicity before firing.
Investigation and Evidence
Authorities later searched Berron's home in Chula Vista and found a 9mm handgun believed to be linked to at least one of the shootings. This evidence has been crucial in building the case against the former journalist.
Legal Proceedings and Response
The father of five has since been released on bail and was scheduled to appear in court on March 17, as reported by Fox5. When approached outside his home, Berron declined to answer questions and drove away without comment. His wife has pushed back on the accusations, asserting that authorities have the wrong person. The Independent has contacted the San Diego County Sheriff's Office for further comment on the ongoing investigation.
This case underscores serious concerns about hate crimes and violence in the region, with the alleged actions of a former media professional drawing widespread attention and legal scrutiny.
