On Wednesday, Aug. 9, Hollister Police detectives arrested 33-year-old Michael Simas for his alleged involvement in the killing of Lisa Hall, age 40.
Simas agreed to meet with police detectives and answer questions as to how Hall was shot and killed on Aug. 8. He arrived at the police department along with his attorney, provided a statement and advised the shooting was accidental and had occurred in his trailer in the unincorporated area of the county on Orchard Road, according to police. Simas also advised detectives where he had disposed of the firearm used in the shooting, according to a press release.
Detectives recovered the handgun allegedly used in this shooting along Fairview Road. Police personnel have also seized the trailer that had been moved to Hanford, Calif. by Simas.
A search warrant was executed in Hanford on Aug. 8 by Hollister Police, UNET agents and with the assistance of Hanford Police Department. Items seiezed during that search warrant resulted in further evidence pointing toward Simas’ involvement, police say.
Simas was booked at the San Benito County Jail for 187 P.C. Murder and 135 P.C. destruction of evidence.
Anyone having information on this case is asked to call Detective Martinez at the Hollister Police Department at 636-4330. Persons wishing to remain anonymous can call the WeTip Hotline at 800-87-CRIME. Information provided to WeTip may qualify for a reward.
“The Hollister Police Department would like to express our sincerest condolences to the family and friends of the Lisa Hall,” the press release said.
The department thanked the San Benito County Sheriff’s Office the United Narcotics Enforcment Team (UNET), Hanford Police Department, the San Benito County District Attorneys Office, and the California Department of Justice for their assistance in the investigation.