WEITCHPEC, Calif. — A shocking tragedy struck the Weitchpec area on February 3, 2026, as authorities confirmed that Celinda Gonzales, a respected suicide prevention advocate, was one of two people found deceased in a suspected murder-suicide on Lewis Road. The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office responded to the residence in the 900 block of Lewis Road at approximately 8:47 p.m. following a report of a possible domestic incident.
Deputies arriving at the scene discovered two individuals deceased inside the home. Based on preliminary findings, sheriff’s officials said the incident appears consistent with a murder-suicide, though the investigation remains ongoing. No further details have been released as investigators continue to gather evidence.
Gonzales was widely recognized in her community for her dedicated work in suicide prevention in Northwestern California. In a 2020 CalMatters report, she spoke openly about the pressures facing rural and tribal communities, including wildfire threats, declining salmon runs, economic hardship, and limited access to mental health care. She emphasized the importance of addressing suicide directly and honestly in her community.
Her advocacy was deeply personal. After losing both her teenage son and her brother to suicide, Gonzales committed herself to prevention work in and around Weitchpec, an isolated area on the Yurok Reservation. She trained in suicide intervention, collaborated with local agencies, and became a trusted contact for individuals struggling with suicidal thoughts. Even after grant funding for her official role ended, Gonzales continued outreach informally, often checking in with community members through social media and personal connections.
Following the incident, Yurok Tribal Police announced efforts to provide grief counseling services for those affected by the tragedy. Officials said additional information regarding available support resources will be shared as it becomes available, acknowledging the profound impact on the community of Weitchpec and surrounding areas.
Authorities are asking anyone with information related to the case to contact the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office at 707-445-7251 or the Crime Tip Line at 707-268-2539. The community continues to mourn the loss of a tireless advocate whose life was tragically cut short while she dedicated herself to helping others navigate the complexities of mental health and suicide prevention.
