Murder Suspect Consulted Online Psychic: ‘Will I Get Caught?’

On March 23, 2016, a devastating incident unfolded in Santa Barbara when Dr. Henry Han, his wife Jennie, and their five-year-old daughter Emily were found dead in their home. The gruesome discovery was made by family friend Don Goldberg after Dr. Han failed to attend a meeting. The tragic event left the community in shock and mourning.

The Victims and Their Legacy

Dr. Han, a well-respected figure in alternative medicine, had built a thriving practice, the Santa Barbara Herb Clinic, after emigrating from China. His family was well-loved and remembered for their warmth, particularly Emily, who was just days shy of her sixth birthday. Friends described Henry Han as a dedicated healer whose holistic approach instilled hope and confidence in his patients.

The Murders

The family’s bodies were discovered wrapped in plastic, revealing a harrowing scene. Autopsies later revealed that they had been shot multiple times while they slept. Evidence from the scene included shell casings and bloody bedding that suggested a calculated execution. The investigation quickly pointed to a person of interest: Pierre Haobsh.

Who Was Pierre Haobsh?

Haobsh was connected to Dr. Han through a business agreement signed just before the tragic events. While initially viewed as harmless, the Palumbos, who were business partners with Dr. Han, felt uneasy about him, noting his strange behavior and unprofessionalism.

The Investigation Unfolds

• Murder Scene Evidence: Investigators found bleach stains and cleaning supplies, indicating attempts to destroy evidence.
• Business Contract: A document found at the murder scene linked Haobsh to Dr. Han, raising suspicions.
• Video Footage: Security footage from a Home Depot in Oceanside captured Haobsh purchasing duct tape and plastic, similar to that used in the crime.

A Shocking Confession

Within days of the murders, law enforcement arrested Haobsh in a nearby town. Disturbingly, he initially defended himself by claiming self-defense against supposed threats from shadowy figures. However, his convoluted narrative failed to convince investigators who had already gathered overwhelming evidence against him.

Crucial Witness

A key witness, TJ Direda, revealed that Haobsh had confessed to him about the murders. Direda’s testimony included alarming details known only to the perpetrator, such as how the bodies were handled and the motive behind the crime, which Haobsh claimed was to access Dr. Han’s finances.

Trial and Sentencing

In 2021, after a lengthy process, Haobsh was found guilty of three counts of first-degree murder. Prosecutors argued that the murders were premeditated, aimed at financial gain. Ultimately, Haobsh was sentenced to three life terms without the possibility of parole.

The Impact on the Community

The loss of the Han family left an indelible scar on the Santa Barbara community. Friends and colleagues continue to mourn the senseless violence that ended the lives of a family deeply loved and respected.

Ongoing Reverberations

As the years pass, the story of the Han family serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the consequences of trust misplaced. The community remains vigilant, ensuring their legacy lives on, as they continue to honor them in memory. The case also raises awareness about the complex nature of partnerships and the hidden dangers they may harbor.