Hollister Police Department

10/30/2026

Hollister, California – October 30, 2026 - On October 13, 2026, Detectives with the Hollister Police Department arrested a Hollister resident for planning a school shooting at Hollister High School. There is currently no threat to the school.

On September 27, 2026, Hollister Police Department officers received a report from the Northern California Regional Intelligence Center (NCRIC) about an individual planning a school shooting. The report noted the individual intended to purchase a fi***rm and carry out a shooting at Hollister High School.

The NCRIC and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) provided additional information about the case and the individual's plans to commit this crime. The suspect had discussed his plan and radical ideation with others. Officers immediately began investigating and contacted witnesses who had communicated with the individual through social media and other applications. The police department worked diligently with the High School staff in this investigation and no information was released at the time to not jeopardize the investigation.

Officers obtained direct messages showing the suspect's conversations and intent to carry out the criminal activity. Given the nature of the crime and the urgency of stopping the threat, Hollister Police detectives began investigating. Detective Baugher reviewed the evidence and conversations between the suspect and others and learned that the individual lived somewhere in Hollister, though his exact location was unknown. Detective Baugher authored several warrants to obtain more information about the suspect's identity and residence.

Detective Baugher's thorough investigation and critical thinking enabled her to identify a possible suspect. She continued investigating until the suspect was confirmed to be Carlos Barajas Ramirez (18), a Hollister resident. Hollister detectives and police officers contacted Carlos Barajas Ramirez at his residence. The investigation determined he had planned to carry out a school shooting.

Carlos Barajas Ramirez was arrested and booked into the San Benito County Jail for violating California Penal Code 422.3(a), Publishing Threats to Commit a School Shooting.

The Hollister Police Department would like to reiterate to the community that there is currently no threat to Hollister High School. The department takes every tip, report, or piece of information about a school shooting seriously, and the community can be assured that each matter will be thoroughly investigated. Cases like this are taken very seriously, we work collaboratively with the school staff, and criminal charges will be filed against anyone who plans to commit criminal activity at a school. ‘The SBHSD and HHS value our strong partnership with the Hollister Police Department. The communication received and HPD's guidance regarding potential threats to our school community was once again instrumental to ensuring a safe environment for all. Our goal is and has always been to support their efforts, follow their lead, and to not impair their ability to do an outstanding job on behalf of our community.” Dr. Shawn Tennenbaum, Ed.D.

The Hollister Police Department remains committed to transparency and privacy protections. The press release was not released at the time of arrest due to lack of approval for the release at that time. Anyone with information that may assist investigators is encouraged to contact the Hollister Police Department at (831) 636-4331.

Prepared by: A. Melgoza, Sergeant
Approved by: C. Reynoso, Chief of Police

10/30/2026

AdvisoryHollister Animal Shelter Announces Temporary Suspension of Animal Intakes Following Confirmed Ringworm Cases

HOLLISTER, CALIFORNIA – October 28, 2026- The Hollister Animal Shelter is taking precautionary measures following confirmed cases of ringworm among animals in our care. Ringworm is a common, treatable fungal infection, but it is highly contagious and can spread between animals, people, and contaminated surfaces.

At the recommendation of a licensed veterinarian, the Hollister Animal Shelter will temporarily suspend animal intakes from October 29, 2026, through November 11, 2026. This temporary suspension aims to minimize the risk of further transmission while allowing staff to focus on continued care and treatment of shelter animals and enhanced preventive measures.

Ringworm has an incubation period of about 7 to 14 days, meaning an animal may be infected without showing visible symptoms immediately. As a result, additional cases may develop even after treatment and preventive measures begin. Temporarily suspending new intakes will help limit potential exposure and reduce the risk of introducing the infection to additional animals.

Animal Control Officers will continue responding to calls for service throughout the temporary intake suspension. In addition to their regular field responsibilities, staff will continue caring for the animals currently housed at the shelter, following established sanitation protocols, performing additional cleaning and disinfection throughout the facility, monitoring animals for symptoms, and providing veterinary-recommended treatment as necessary.

Residents who locate stray animals are encouraged to contact Hollister Animal Care & Services before transporting an animal to the shelter. Animal Control Officers will provide guidance, assist with owner reunification efforts, and evaluate situations requiring immediate intervention. Staff may also coordinate temporary care options on a case-by-case basis to ensure animals in need continue receiving appropriate assistance while minimizing the risk of further exposure.

We are implementing these measures out of an abundance of caution and in accordance with veterinary guidance. By taking proactive steps now, the shelter can focus on treating affected animals, minimizing further exposure, and maintaining a healthy environment for the animals in our care.

Although ringworm is treatable, proper containment is essential to preventing additional infections. The temporary suspension of intakes is a preventive measure designed to support these efforts while prioritizing the health and well-being of shelter animals, staff, and the community.

The Hollister Animal Shelter expects to resume normal animal intake operations on November 12, 2026. Any updates to this timeline will be communicated to the public.

The Hollister Animal Shelter remains committed to providing quality animal care and following licensed veterinarians' recommendations. We appreciate the community's patience and understanding as we take these necessary precautions to minimize the spread of infection.

Prepared by: Alyssa Carillo, AC Supervisor
Approved by: Michael Paddy, Captain

10/26/2026

🎃👻 THIS FRIDAY! 🎃 9th Annual Trick or Treat Street! 👻🍬

Hollister, get your costumes ready!

Join us THIS FRIDAY, October 30, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM on San Benito Street in Downtown Hollister for an evening of safe, family-friendly Halloween fun!

🍬 Here’s what you can look forward to:
🎃 Free Treat Bags! The first 1,000 kids will receive a free “Treat Streets” bag!
📍 Start Here: Visit the Veterans’ Memorial Building at 649 San Benito Street to pick up your official Trick or Treat Street passport and treat bag.
🎟️ Passport & Prizes! Collect stamps from participating agencies and turn in your completed passport at the Recreation Booth Parklet for a chance to win raffles and grand prizes! 🎁

🍭 Trick-or-Treat Downtown! Visit local businesses and nonprofits throughout downtown for candy, smiles, and Halloween cheer!
👻 Bring your family and friends, dress up in your favorite Halloween costume, and join us for one of Hollister’s favorite Halloween traditions!

📅 WHEN: Friday, October 30, 2026
⏰ TIME: 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
📍 WHERE: San Benito Street, Downtown Hollister
🎃 Mark your calendars and spread the word! We can’t wait to see everyone there!

🎃👻 ¡ESTE VIERNES! ¡Se acerca la 9.ª edición anual de Trick or Treat Street! 👻🍬
¡Hollister, preparen sus disfraces! 🧛‍♀️🦸‍♂️ Acompáñennos ESTE VIERNES 30 DE OCTUBRE DE 2026, de 4:00 PM a 7:00 PM, en la calle San Benito, en el centro de Hollister, para disfrutar de una tarde llena de diversión de Halloween, segura y para toda la familia. 🧡🖤

🍬 ¡Esto es lo que les espera!

🎃 ¡Bolsitas de dulces gratis! Los primeros 1,000 niños recibirán una bolsa gratuita de “Treat Streets”.

📍 ¡Comiencen aquí! Visiten el edificio Veterans’ Memorial Building, ubicado en 649 San Benito Street, para recoger su pasaporte oficial de Trick or Treat Street y su bolsa de dulces.

🍭 ¡Pidan dulces por el centro! Visiten los negocios locales y las organizaciones sin fines de lucro que estarán repartiendo dulces, sonrisas y alegría de Halloween.

📅 FECHA: Viernes, 30 de octubre de 2026
⏰ HORARIO: 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
📍 LUGAR: Calle San Benito, centro de Hollister

10/23/2026

HOLLISTER POLICE DEPARTMENT | COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENT

National Drug Take Back Day is Saturday October 24, 2026.
Help keep our community safe! The Hollister Police Department invites you to participate in Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, October 24, 2026!

Have unused, unwanted, or expired medications sitting around your home? Bring them to our collection site for safe and responsible disposal.

DATE

Saturday, October 24, 2026

LOCATION

Target Parking Lot

1790 Airline Highway, Hollister, CA

NO QUESTIONS ASKED!

Hollister police officers will be on hand to collect your medications and help make proper disposal easy and convenient.

Why participate?

* Prevent the misuse and accidental ingestion of medications.

* Keep potentially dangerous drugs out of the hands of children and others.

* Help protect our environment through responsible medication disposal.

Small actions make a big difference! Take a few minutes to clean out your medicine cabinet and help us build a safer, healthier Hollister.

Safely dispose of your medications. Protect your family. Protect your community.

10/23/2026

Remembering Eva Quinones: A Lasting Legacy of Hollister Police.

Today, we said our final goodbyes to Eva Quinones, a beloved member of the Hollister Police Department whose 30 years of dedicated service helped shape the department we know today.

Eva began her career with the department in parking enforcement and, over the years, served in several roles before retiring in 2010 as the Executive Assistant to the Chief of Police. She knew the department inside and out and was a trusted source of knowledge, guidance, and support to generations of employees. Whether assisting with records, serving as a translator, or simply offering a kind word of encouragement, Eva had a way of making people feel supported and valued.

For the many officers who began their careers in Hollister, Eva was a familiar and steady presence. She encouraged them to work hard, take pride in their service, and always do the right thing. She helped shape the culture, values, and traditions that continue to guide our department today.

Spanish:

En memoria de Eva Quiñones: Un legado perdurable en el Departamento de Policía de Hollister

Hoy nos despedimos de Eva Quiñones, un miembro muy querido del Departamento de Policía de Hollister, cuyos 30 años de servicio dedicado ayudaron a forjar el departamento que conocemos hoy.

Eva comenzó su trayectoria en el departamento en el área de control de estacionamiento y, a lo largo de los años, desempeñó diversas funciones hasta su jubilación en 2010, cuando ocupaba el cargo de asistente ejecutiva del jefe de policía. Conocía el departamento a la perfección y fue una fuente confiable de conocimiento, orientación y apoyo para generaciones de empleados. Ya fuera ayudando con los registros, actuando como traductora o simplemente ofreciendo una palabra amable de aliento, Eva tenía la capacidad de hacer que los demás se sintieran respaldados y valorados.

Para muchos agentes que iniciaron sus carreras en Hollister, Eva fue una presencia familiar y constante. Ella los alentaba a esforzarse, a sentirse orgullosos de su labor y a actuar siempre de manera correcta. Contribuyó a definir la cultura, los valores y las tradiciones que siguen guiando a nuestro departamento en la actualidad.

Cada institución se sostiene gracias a quienes nos precedieron. Eva fue una de esas pioneras cuya dedicación, compasión y fortaleza serena ayudaron a sentar las bases de lo que somos hoy. Sus contribuciones no pueden medirse únicamente en años de servicio o cargos ocupados, sino en las personas a las que alentó, las vidas que tocó y la huella duradera que dejó en este departamento.

Aunque Eva se jubiló en 2010, su legado sigue presente en la esencia misma del Departamento de Policía de Hollister. Estamos agradecidos por sus años de servicio, su amistad y el ejemplo que brindó a todos aquellos que tuvieron el privilegio de trabajar a su lado.

Extrañaremos profundamente a Eva; la recordaremos con cariño y siempre formará parte de nuestra familia del Departamento de Policía de Hollister.
Every department stands on the shoulders of those who came before us. Eva was one of those pioneers whose dedication, compassion, and quiet strength helped lay the foundation of who we are. Her contributions cannot be measured solely in years of service or positions held, but in the people, she encouraged, the lives she touched, and the lasting imprint she left on this department.

Although Eva retired in 2010, her legacy remains woven into the fabric of the Hollister Police Department. We are grateful for her years of service, her friendship, and the example she set for all who had the privilege of working alongside her.

Eva will be deeply missed, fondly remembered, and forever a part of our HPD family.

10/22/2026

10/08/2026

Hollister, California. – October 08, 2026- On October 4, 2026, the Hollister Police Department investigated a fatal traffic collision involving a bicyclist & a pickup truck that occurred at the intersection of Central Avenue & Westside Boulevard.
On October 4, 2026, at about 5:00 pm, Hollister Police Department officers were dispatched to Central Avenue & Westside Bld regarding a collision involving a bicyclist. Initial reports indicated that the bicyclist had sustained a serious head injury and was unresponsive.
Officers, along with personnel from the Hollister Fire Department and AMR Ambulance, responded to the scene. An adult male bicyclist was located on the roadway near the collision. Emergency personnel immediately began life-saving measures; however, despite their efforts, the bicyclist succumbed to his injuries & was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The preliminary investigation indicates that the bicyclist was traveling on Central Avenue and, while crossing the intersection at Westside Boulevard, collided with the front left portion of a pickup truck traveling northbound on Westside Boulevard.
As part of the investigation, officers conducted a DUI investigation of the driver of the pickup truck. Based on the investigation conducted at the scene, alcohol was determined not to be a contributing factor in the collision.
The San Benito County Sheriff's Office also responded to the scene and assisted Hollister Police Department personnel with processing the collision scene.
The Hollister Police Department has received information regarding the possible identification of the deceased bicyclist. However, because no physical identification was located, the identity of the deceased has not yet been officially confirmed. The department will not release the individual's name until positive identification has been completed & appropriate notifications have been made to the family.
The Hollister Police Department extends its condolences to the family & loved ones of the deceased during this difficult time.
The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone who witnessed the collision or has information that may assist investigators is encouraged to call police at 636-4330.

10/08/2026

The Nash Road gates near Hollister High School will be closed between 11:00 AM - 8:00 pm on Saturday, October 10, 2026 and between 7:00 AM - 12:00 PM on Sunday, October 11, 2026. 

On these dates, Hollister High School will be hosting the South Coast FFA Region Chapter Officer Leadership Conference on campus. The school expect to have over 500 students and adults on campus for the weekend. The closure will help ensure student, guest, and community safety.

Thank you for your understanding.

Spanish:

Las puertas de Nash Road cerca de Hollister High School estarán cerradas entre las 11:00 AM y las 8:00 pm del sábado 10 de octubre de 2026 y entre las 7:00 AM y las 12:00 PM del domingo 11 de octubre de 2026.

En estas fechas, Hollister High School será la sede de la Conferencia de Liderazgo de Oficiales de Capítulos de la Región FFA de la Costa Sur en el campus. La escuela espera tener más de 500 estudiantes y adultos en el campus durante el fin de semana. El cierre ayudará a garantizar la seguridad de los estudiantes, los huéspedes y la comunidad.

Gracias por su comprensión.

10/01/2026

Today was a great day as we celebrated the graduation of Diego Torres from the South Bay Regional Police Academy.

Many in our community may already know Diego. Before beginning the academy, Diego served as one of our Community Services Officers, where he developed strong connections with the people he now has the opportunity to serve as a police officer.

After successfully completing more than 5½ months of rigorous academy training, Diego has officially taken the next step in his law enforcement career. His journey continues with an intensive 12–16 week field training program, where he will put his academy knowledge and skills into practice under the guidance of experienced officers.

We are especially excited to see Diego begin this new chapter serving the community where he grew up. Having someone who knows and cares about Hollister become part of our police officer ranks is something we are proud to celebrate.

Please join us in congratulating Diego on this tremendous accomplishment!

And when you see him out on patrol, be sure to say hello and welcome him into his new role! We are proud of you, Diego, congratulations!

Spanish:

Hoy fue un gran día cuando celebramos la graduación de Diego Torres de la Academia Regional de Policía de South Bay.

Muchos en nuestra comunidad ya conocen a Diego. Antes de comenzar la academia, Diego se desempeñó como uno de nuestros oficiales de servicios comunitarios, donde desarrolló fuertes conexiones con las personas que ahora tiene la oportunidad de servir como oficial de policía.

Después de completar con éxito más de 5 meses y medio de rigurosa capacitación académica, Diego ha dado oficialmente el siguiente paso en su carrera policial. Su viaje continúa con un programa intensivo de entrenamiento de campo de 12-16 semanas, donde pondrá en práctica sus conocimientos y habilidades de la academia bajo la guía de oficiales experimentados.

Estamos especialmente emocionados de ver a Diego comenzar este nuevo capítulo sirviendo a la comunidad donde creció. Que alguien que conoce y se preocupa por Hollister forme parte de nuestras filas de oficiales de policía es algo que estamos orgullosos de celebrar.

¡Felicidades Diego!

09/30/2026

Hollister, California. – September 30, 2026- The Hollister Police Department was in an hours-long standoff with a suicidal woman who was wielding a knife and actively self-harming.

On September 26, 2026, Hollister Police Officers were advised of a female walking in the area of Julian Court, looking into backyards and carrying a knife. When officers located the woman, she was in the open fields of Apricot Lane at Summer Drive, yelling and making incoherent statements. While maintaining distance but trying to determine if the woman needed further assistance, officers tried to engage her and could see that the woman was holding a knife in her pocket. The woman refused to speak with the officers and began walking away from them towards a more populated area. Believing that the woman was possibly experiencing a mental health crisis and that further public safety concerns could arise, officers continued to monitor the woman and tried to speak with her from a distance utilizing a PA system.

The woman continued to walk away from officers and into the San Benito River. Officers began disengaging from the woman because the concern for public safety had decreased. As officers did this, the woman began using the knife she had to self-harm and then ran south through the riverbed toward Nash Road at Westside Boulevard, to another populated area. Officers relocated to the area, along with deputies from the San Benito County Sheriff’s Department and CAL FIRE officers. The units established another perimeter to monitor the woman’s movements and address any further public safety concerns. As the woman was walking about the area, officers continued to try to speak with her, but she continued to actively use a knife to self-harm, so they sought assistance from San Benito County Behavioral Health’s Mobile Crisis Response Team (MCRT).

MCRT crisis workers responded to assist officers with crisis negotiation and urging the woman to obtain medical assistance, but she continued to refuse all help offered. Officers also deployed a drone to support aerial monitoring as she continued to walk around the area and alongside nearby residences.

After hours of unsuccessful crisis negotiations and perimeter management, the woman remained apathetic with officers. At one point, she began running toward Nash Road and a residential area. Concerned for the safety of the community members in their homes, officers and deputies were forced to utilize less-lethal options by impacting the woman with pepperball projectiles and 12-gauge less-lethal mu*****ns to disarm her of the knife. The woman dropped the knife, allowing officers to detain her and provide her with immediate medical attention.

Officers promptly had medics, who were stationed nearby, respond to the scene to provide the woman with further medical treatment. The Hollister Fire Department and American Medical Response (AMR) medics coordinated her continued treatment and ultimately had her flown out of the area to a regional hospital for further care.

The Hollister Police Department would like to extend our appreciation to our allied agencies: San Benito County Sheriff’s Department, CAL FIRE, San Benito County Behavioral Health’s Mobile Crisis Response Team, Hollister Fire Department, and American Medical Response. Matters of this magnitude require a multifaceted approach, along with an abundance of care and caution.
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Prepared by: C. Wells, Sergeant
Approved by: M. Paddy, Captain