Today, the name of the second stabbing victim in Davis was released by the Yolo County Coroner and our hearts are in mourning. Karim Abou Najm was a 20-year old whose promise was extinguished too soon. He was a UC Davis student about to graduate this spring and a 2020 alumnus from Davis Senior High. Our hearts go out to Karim’s family and friends during this time.

Many of us in the Davis community are experiencing a range of emotions. We share concerns regarding safety and a desire for resolution. Our regional law enforcement community has come together during this time of need and is assisting the Davis Police Department to investigate and resolve these recent crimes. In addition, extra police officers and patrols will be located around schools and parks and all city resources have been deployed to assist our officers. 

Our education community has also come together. The Davis Joint Unified School District will have all principals and counselors hold a safety briefing with staff prior to school opening to reinforce safety protocols and discuss increased supervision. UC Davis is expanding its Safe Rides Program and increasing its campus security and police patrols. Both agencies have mental health resources for additional support.

We urge all residents to be cautious. Travel with friends after dark and avoid situations that make you nervous. Report suspicious activity and if you feel that you are in danger, call 9-1-1. We also urge our community to take time for their mental health and to consider our youth as they can also be overwhelmed.

Our Davis community has also come together in this time of need. We appreciate all the comments that we’ve received. It shows that the Davis community is connected, resilient and engaged. We look after each other not only because of our location but because we hold dearly what it means to live in Davis – we are one community made up of vibrant people who see the inherent value that each and every member brings. 

Mayor Will Arnold
Vice Mayor Josh Chapman
Councilmember Bapu Vaitla
Councilmember Gloria Partida