HOLLISTER, CALIFORNIA – July 28, 2021 – The Hollister Police have made three additional arrests in connection with the July 15, 2021 fight and shooting in downtown Hollister.
On July 15, 2021, at about 11:54 PM, Hollister Police officers responded to the area of Wentz Alley and San Benito Street regarding a large group of people with weapons involved in a fight. As officers arrived, they heard the distinct sound of guns being fired and saw people scattering in all directions. One 15 year old juvenile was arrested for resisting and delaying officers at the scene.
During the intial investigation at the scene, Officers located shell casings from two different weapons and determined that a fight broke out between two groups which ended in gunfire.
The Hollister Police Department’s detective bureau investigated this incident and learned the fight involved 10 to 15 individuals. Two involved suspects fired handguns during the incident.
On July 19, 2021 a search warrant was served at the Hollister residence of the first suspect, Anthony Cervantes (23). He was arrested and booked into the San Benito County jail on the charge of discharging a firearm in a grossly negligent manner.
On July 21, 2021 a search warrant was served at the residence of the second suspect, Hollister resident Abel Pasillas Jr.(23). He was arrested and booked into the San Benito County jail on the charges of attempted murder, shooting at a vehicle, probation violations, carrying a loaded firearm with a prior felony and carrying a loaded firearm while being a criminal street gang member.
On July 28, 2021 Jose Vega was arrested for his involvement in the initial fight prior to the shooting. He was booked at the county jail for assault with a deadly weapon and conspiracy to commit a felony.
This is still on ongoing investigation. Anyone with information regarding this case is asked to contact Detective Morgan at The Hollister Police Department at 831-638-4115. Persons wishing to remain anonymous may call WeTip at (800) 78-CRIME. Information provided to WeTip may qualify for a reward.
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Prepared by: Don Pershall, Sergeant
Approved by: Carlos Reynoso, Chief of Police
