by Jim Emerson
ANTIOCH — Camari Coleman, 23, of Brentwood, remains in custody in lieu of $1.1 million bond,
charged with murder and elder abuse resulting in death. Coleman was arrested on July 21 for his
alleged role in a fatal altercation in Antioch.
The altercation occurred outside the Contra Costa County Employment and Human Services building,
4545 Delta Fair Boulevard. Coleman reportedly participated in a confrontation at an outdoor cell phone
vendor booth, where an elderly man was fatally injured.
A 77-year-old Pittsburg resident, Paul Lawson reportedly argued with employees, which escalated to a
physical altercation. Witness statements varied as to whether Lawson was shoved or stumbled over a
folding chair on June 9. The victim hit the pavement hard.
Antioch police and paramedics responded to the vendor booth shortly after 2:30 p.m. Lawson
reportedly told paramedics that he “lost all feeling and was unable to move.” He was transported to a
hospital where he died on June 13.
Detectives analyzed surveillance videos recorded at nearby businesses, videos bystanders recorded,
and data from automated license plate readers. Witnesses were interviewed and ultimately Coleman
was identified as a suspect.
A warrant was issued for Coleman’s arrest. He was taken into custody in Brentwood, and booked into
the Martinez Detention Facility. Despite Coleman’s arrest the investigation remains ongoing. Anyone
with information can email Antioch Detective Ryan Duff at rduff@antiochca.gov.
