APD arrests victim's girlfriend for attempted homicide

On 12/16/16 at about 1424 hours, the Arcata Police Department received a report of a stabbing victim in the area of Samoa Bl and H St. Upon the officer's arrival, they located a 44-year-old male with multiple stab wounds to his back and upper chest. The officers began administering first aid to the male victim until the arrival of emergency medical staff.

Due to the victim's injuries, the officers were unable to get much information from him on what had occurred. The officers began checking the immediate area for witnesses and evidence. An officer noticed that a nearby business had a video camera facing the area where the victim was located. Upon review of the video, the officers could see the suspect stab the victim. The suspect was identified as Jessica Vaverka (28) of Arcata.

Vaverka was on-scene and had initially identified herself as the victim's girlfriend. She was taken into custody without incident. Vaverka was transported to the Humboldt County Correctional Facility, where she was booked for 664/187 PC, attempted homicide and 1203.2 PC, probation violation.

The victim was admitted to the hospital and is listed in stable, but guarded condition.

Any witnesses to the incident are encouraged to contact the Arcata Police Department.