BONIFAY, FL (AP) – Authorities have apprehended a suspect in connection to a fatal shooting at a Bonifay hotel. The U.S. Marshalls arrested Lois Merkel at her residence in Calloway, with the Holmes County Sheriff’s Office confirming the arrest. Merkel is now being held at Bay County Jail as she awaits extradition back to Holmes County.
The incident, originally reported as an accidental shooting at a Holiday Inn Express in Bonifay, took place in May 2023. After an extensive investigation, authorities concluded that the shooting was not accidental. Merkel has been charged with 2nd-degree murder in relation to the death of Steven Hall.
The arrest marks a significant development in the case, bringing some closure to the victim’s family and loved ones. The Holmes County Sheriff’s Office has worked diligently to unravel the circumstances surrounding the incident, and Merkel’s arrest is a testament to their commitment to justice.
Details of the shooting and its aftermath have deeply impacted the local community. The tragic loss of life and the subsequent investigation have left a lasting impact, underscoring the importance of thorough law enforcement efforts in ensuring the safety and security of all residents.
As the legal process unfolds, the community will be closely following the case, seeking justice for the victim and his family. Merkel’s arrest signals a step forward in the pursuit of accountability and closure for those affected by this senseless act of violence.
