SHASTA COUNTY, Calif. — Simon Tikue has been sentenced to 107 years to life without the possibility of parole, plus an additional 18 years in state prison, for a series of violent crimes, including the 2021 murders of Meba Getachew and Gunnar Yeager in Oak Run, and the 2018 robbery of another victim in Redding.
The sentencing took place in Shasta County Superior Court on Tuesday, where Judge Tamara Wood delivered the maximum sentence allowed under law. Tikue was convicted on multiple felony counts, including:
Two counts of first-degree murder
Two counts of second-degree robbery
Kidnapping for robbery
Assault with a firearm
Criminal threats
False imprisonment by violence
The court refused to strike any gun enhancements, citing the gravity and premeditated nature of the offenses. Judge Wood characterized the crimes as “aggravated,” justifying the full extent of the sentencing.
The case, prosecuted by Senior Deputy District Attorney Toby Powell, was based on investigations led by Detective Kilee Holroyd of the Shasta County Sheriff’s Office and Lieutenant Robert Garnero of the Redding Police Department.
During the sentencing, Senior Victim Advocate Robyn Reger read emotional impact statements from the families of Getachew and Yeager, who were described as college friends and devoted fathers. Their loved ones spoke of the lasting trauma, loss, and grief caused by the murders, describing the profound effect on their children and spouses.
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“This sentence ensures that Simon Tikue will never again pose a threat to society,” said Shasta County District Attorney’s Office in a statement. “We commend the tireless work of our investigators and the strength of the victims’ families throughout this process.”
