Lassen County Woman Arrested on Suspicion of Second-Degree Murder
A Lassen County woman has been arrested in connection to a fatal shooting earlier this month in Westwood.
According to a press release by the Lassen County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to a report of a shooting at a residence on the 200 block of Elm Street just before 1 PM on Saturday, June 3. Dispatch relayed that a male individual had been shot in the alleyway behind the residence, with the female suspect remaining at the scene.
Upon arrival, responding deputies detained the suspect, later identified as 41-year-old Melanie Ann Hines, a resident of Westwood. California Highway Patrol officers also arrived on scene to assist in securing the area while coordinating medical assistance for the victim.
Despite life-saving efforts by emergency personnel from Cal-Fire, Westwood Fire, and Peninsula Fire Department, the victim, identified as 25-year-old Austin Andrew Howell of Westwood, passed away to a single gunshot wound to the abdomen. Howell was pronounced deceased at the scene after about thirty minutes of attempts at resuscitation.
In light of the circumstances, Lassen County Sheriff’s Office detectives have initiated a homicide investigation into the incident. While still in its preliminary stages, investigators have determined that domestic violence may have played a role in the incident, the Sheriff’s Office said.
Hines was taken into custody and booked at the Lassen County jail on suspicion of second-degree murder, with bail set at $1 million.
The Lassen County Sheriff’s Office has assured the residents of Westwood that this incident appears to be isolated, with no immediate threat to public safety. However, they urge anyone with information related to the case to come forward and contact the Lassen County Sheriff’s Office at 530-257-6121.
As the investigation progresses, law enforcement officials will continue to gather evidence and conduct interviews to establish a clearer understanding of the events leading up to the shooting. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
