The Weitchpec community and the greater Humboldt County region are mourning the loss of Celinda Gonzales, a deeply respected suicide prevention advocate whose life and work touched countless people across Northwestern California.
A family member confirmed that Gonzales is one of two individuals found deceased during an ongoing death investigation on Lewis Road. According to the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded at approximately 8:47 p.m. on February 3 to a residence in the 900 block of Lewis Road following a report of a possible murder-suicide. Upon arrival, deputies located two individuals deceased inside the home. Based on preliminary information, officials said the incident appears consistent with a murder-suicide. The investigation remains ongoing.
Celinda Gonzales was widely known and deeply valued for her tireless work in suicide prevention, particularly within rural and tribal communities in Humboldt County. In a 2020 CalMatters report, she spoke candidly about the compounded pressures facing these communities, including wildfire threats, declining salmon runs, economic hardship, and limited access to mental health care. She emphasized the emotional toll of these challenges and the importance of openly addressing suicide.
After experiencing profound personal loss — including the deaths of her teenage son and her brother to suicide — Gonzales devoted her life to helping others. She trained in suicide intervention, worked alongside local agencies, and became a trusted and compassionate presence for individuals in crisis throughout the Weitchpec area and the Yurok Reservation. Even after formal funding for her position ended, she continued her outreach informally, maintaining connections through social media and personal contact to ensure no one felt alone.
Following the tragedy, Yurok Tribal Police announced efforts to establish grief counseling services for those impacted. Additional information about available resources will be shared as it becomes available.
Anyone with information related to this case is encouraged to contact the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office at (707) 445-7251 or the Sheriff’s Office Crime Tip Line at (707) 268-2539.
Celinda Gonzales will be remembered for her compassion, courage, and unwavering dedication to saving lives. Her legacy lives on in the many people she supported, inspired, and helped through their darkest moments.
May Celinda Gonzales rest in peace, and may comfort and healing surround all who mourn her loss.
