This morning, the Yolo County Coroner positively identified the victim of yesterday’s brutal homicide that occurred in Central Park. The victim, David Henry Breaux (age 50), is a well-known community member and has been a regular fixture in the downtown area and at Central Park for at least the last decade. He is affectionately known around town as the “Compassion Guy,” which is a fitting tribute to his regular interactions with everyone who walked by, often waving and greeting folks or asking them to share their view on compassion. He chose Davis as his home to be around people; he touched many lives in our community, dedicating his time and energy towards selflessness.
“The death of David Breaux is utterly and completely devastating,” shared Mayor Will Arnold. “Many of us knew David. We talked with him. We shared in his vision for a kinder world. We connected on what it means to be human and humane. David was gentle and kind, soft-spoken and thoughtful, brilliant and selfless. He will be missed.”
David, a Stanford University graduate, was also instrumental in the creation and organization of the Compassion Bench in 2013, located at the corner of 3rd/C Street, and also published a book of anonymous collected writings by community members on the subject. “I had decided to spend the rest of my life with a pen and notepad and asking people to share their concept of compassion… I will continue doing this, until this can no longer continue,” he is quoted as saying; and he did just that.
We know this is a devastating loss to our community, as it is to us. We also understand that people may be feeling anxiety and uncertainty. Because the City takes the matter of public safety seriously, the Davis Police Department is increasing patrols in downtown Davis and the surrounding areas. As always, be aware of your surroundings and report any suspicious behavior.
The investigation is active and ongoing, and the Department will use all available resources to solve this horrific crime. Please keep David and our entire community in your thoughts as we work through the senselessness of this event.
Mayor Will Arnold
Vice Mayor Josh Chapman
Councilmember Bapu Vaitla
Councilmember Gloria Partida
City Manager Mike Webb
Police Chief Darren Pytel
