Willow Creek Man Josue Diego Aguilar Garcia Arrested in Park Stabbing

Humboldt County authorities announced that 23-year-old Josue Diego Aguilar Garcia of Willow Creek was taken into custody by the Del Norte County Sheriff’s Office on Feb. 2, 2026, in connection with a Jan. 24 stabbing at Community Commons Park, the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office said.

The sheriff’s office said it identified Aguilar Garcia after receiving a community tip and follow-up investigation. “After receiving a tip and through follow up investigation, Humboldt County Sheriff deputies have identified 23-year-old Josue Diego Aguilar Garcia of Willow Creek as the person responsible for the stabbing that occurred on Jan. 24th in the Community Commons Park,” the agency said. A Ramey arrest warrant has been issued in the case, the office added.

The sheriff’s office released a photograph captioned “Photo of Aguilar Garcia / HCCF” as part of its public notice and described Aguilar Garcia as a potential public safety risk: “The Sheriff’s Office believes that Aguilar Garcia is a threat to the community and is releasing his photo.” The department asked anyone with information to call (707) 445-7251 or the Sheriff’s Office Crime Tip line at (707) 268-2539, saying, “If you see Aguilar Garcia or know his whereabouts, please call the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office at (707) 445-7251 or the Sheriff’s Office Crime Tip line at (707) 268-2539.”

Local reporting replicated the sheriff’s release and accompanying photo. The incident has focused attention on Community Commons Park, a small-town gathering spot in Willow Creek where residents and families often meet. For a community of roughly 1,700 residents, a violent incident in a public park raises immediate safety questions and concerns about policing resources, victim services and community response.

At this stage the sheriff’s office has limited its public statements to identification, the warrant and the photo release. Officials have not provided additional public details about the number or condition of victims, the specific criminal charges tied to the Ramey warrant, or a motive. Journalists and residents seeking confirmation of custody status, charges, booking location or court dates are advised to contact the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office and the Del Norte County Sheriff’s Office for official statements.

The arrest underscores the role of community tips in local investigations and the importance of clear communication from law enforcement in rural jurisdictions. Willow Creek residents can expect follow-up briefings as Humboldt County and Del Norte County offices coordinate next steps with prosecutors. For now, the sheriff’s office is asking for public assistance and promising further updates as the investigation moves forward.