From the Arcata Police Department:

Arcata Police Department continues an active investigation into the murder of David Josiah Lawson. Recently posts accusing Lawson’s friend, Elijah Chandler, of being a suspect under investigation have surfaced. These posts are false and are not rooted in any investigation facts.

The Arcata Police Department has identified the source of the initial posts. The individual had no personal knowledge of the incident or the investigation.

The APD encourages additional individuals who attended the party where Lawson was stabbed at any time on the night of Friday, April 14 or the morning of April 15 to reach out to the Police Department, provide a recollection of any party details and answer related questions.

The Police Department also reminds the public that misleading social media posts not only cause real damage to individuals in the community but also take vital resources away from other important investigations.

To contact the Arcata Police Department, call (707) 822-2428 during normal business hours, or (707) 822-2424 after hours and on weekends.