Humboldt Sheriff's Office Investigates Apparent Murder-Suicide in 900 Block of Lewis Road

Two people were found dead inside a residence in the 900 block of Lewis Road in Weitchpec after Humboldt County Sheriff deputies responded to a reported possible murder-suicide, the sheriff’s office said. Deputies arrived at about 8:47 p.m. on Feb. 3, 2026 and located two deceased individuals inside the home.

“On Feb. 3, 2026, at 8:47 p.m., Humboldt County Sheriff deputies responded to a residence located in the 900 block of Lewis Rd., in Weitchpec to a reported possible murder‑suicide,” the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office said in a press release. “Upon arrival, deputies located two individuals deceased inside the residence.” The office added that “based on the preliminary investigation, the incident appears to be consistent with a murder‑suicide.”

The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office Major Crimes Division is leading the active investigation and is coordinating with the Yurok Tribal Police. “The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office Major Crimes Division is actively investigating the incident and is working closely with the Yurok Tribal Police,” the release stated. A local television account framed the property as being within the Yurok reservation while noting the same investigative details.

The sheriff’s office said it is withholding the identities of the deceased pending notification of next of kin. “The identities of the deceased are being withheld pending notification of next of kin,” the office said. Separately, the Times‑Standard reported that family members identified one of the victims as Celinda Gonzales and described her as a Yurok suicide prevention advocate; that identification has not been confirmed in the sheriff’s office release.

Authorities cautioned that early findings are preliminary. A republishing site prefaced the release with a legal disclaimer: “The information has not been proven in a court of law and any individuals described should be presumed innocent unless proven guilty.” The sheriff’s office also said, “No additional information will be released at this time. Updates will be released as the investigation continues and as appropriate.”

The incident raises immediate questions for Weitchpec and surrounding communities about public safety, tribal and county coordination, and the availability of local support services. Given the reported role of one person in suicide prevention work, community organizations and tribal leaders may face heightened demand for outreach and grief support. Journalists and residents alike will be watching for official identification, coroner findings, and any information on motive or method that authorities release.

Anyone with relevant information is asked to contact investigators. “Anyone with information about this case is encouraged to call the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office at (707) 445‑7251 or the Sheriff’s Office Crime Tip line at (707) 268‑2539.” The sheriff’s office has said it will provide updates as the investigation develops; residents should expect follow up reporting as law enforcement and tribal partners release further details.