Hollister Police arrested Michael Simas, 33, on Wednesday for his involvement in the killing of resident Lisa Hall, according to a police department press release dated August 9.
Simas agreed to meet with police detectives today and answer questions as to how Hall was shot and killed on August 8, the press release said. He arrived at the police department with an attorney.
Simas gave a statement and said the shooting was accidental and had happened in his trailer in the unincorporated area of the county on Orchard Road, the press release said. He advised detectives where he had disposed of the firearm used in the shooting.
Hollister police detectives recovered the handgun, allegedly used in the shooting, on Fairview Road. Officers also sized the trailer that Simas moved to Hanford, CA.
The Hollister Police Department executed a search warrant in Hanford yesterday with the assistance of the Hanford Police Department and United Narcotics Enforcement Team (UNET) officers. The press release said items seized during the search warrant resulted in further evidence indicating Simas’ involvement.
Simas was booked at the San Benito County Jail for 187 P.C. murder and 135 P.C. destruction of evidence, according to the press release.
On August 8, officers responded to a call regarding a gunshot victim at Hazel Hawkins Hospital. The victim was identified as Lisa Hall, a 40-year old resident of Hollister. A press release stated Hall was brought to the hospital by a man who either wouldn’t or couldn’t provide information about her injury. Hall died later due to her injury.
Anyone with information on this case is asked to call Detective Martinez at the Hollister Police Department at (831) 636-4330. Anonymous calls can be made to the WeTip Hotline at 800-87-CRIME. Information provided to WeTip may qualify for a reward.
In the press release, the Hollister Police Department expressed their sincerest condolences to the family and friends of Lisa Hall.
