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Lafayette Today
By the People, for the People
Butte County Man Charged with Murder in Lafayette Homicide
Suspect used hatchet to kill 34-year-old Christopher Jaber
Mar. 25, 2026 at 9:37am
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The Contra Costa District Attorney's Office has charged 35-year-old David Swank Prince with the murder of 34-year-old Lafayette resident Christopher Jaber. Prince is accused of unlawfully and with malice aforethought taking Jaber's life using a hatchet.
Why it matters
This case highlights the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in addressing violent crimes in the Bay Area, particularly those involving the use of deadly weapons. The investigation into the motive and relationship between the suspect and victim is still ongoing.
The details
On March 21, 2026, around 11:30 am, a relative of Christopher Jaber called 911 to report a suspicious individual with a hatchet in the backyard area of their property. The caller said the individual was breaking into an Accessory Dwelling Unit where Jaber resided. When officers from the Lafayette Police Department arrived, they located Prince a short distance from the ADU, where he was detained and subsequently arrested.
- On March 21, 2026, around 11:30 am, the 911 call was placed.
- Prince is scheduled to be arraigned in court on March 25, 2026.
The players
David Swank Prince
A 35-year-old Butte County man charged with the murder of Christopher Jaber.
Christopher Jaber
A 34-year-old Lafayette resident who was killed by Prince using a hatchet.
What they’re saying
“The murder appears to be a targeted act. The investigation into the motive for the murder and whether Prince and Jaber were acquainted is ongoing.”
— Ted Asregadoo, PIO, Contra Costa District Attorney's Office
What’s next
Prince is set to be in court at 1:30 pm in Martinez on Wednesday, where he could enter a plea to the murder charge and enhancement for the use of a deadly weapon.
The takeaway
This case highlights the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in addressing violent crimes in the Bay Area, particularly those involving the use of deadly weapons. The investigation into the motive and relationship between the suspect and victim is still ongoing, raising questions about public safety and the need for continued vigilance in the community.
