2 bodies found in Valley

MAT-SU — In the span of two days, two Mat-Su Borough households reported dead bodies on their properties.

The first was found around 6:45 p.m., Oct. 4 in the backyard of a Wasilla home, according to an Alaska State Troopers dispatch. Troopers say they responded, investigated and the body was transported to the State Medical Examiner’s Office for positive identification.

The remains were identified as Shane Pickens, 41, of Wasilla, who was reported missing in the area on Sept. 14. Troopers say no foul play is suspected, but the cause of death has yet to be determined.

The second body was reported around 9 a.m., Oct. 6 near the end of a Big Lake driveway and foul play also is not suspected, troopers say.

The caller said a man was lying in the ditch near the end of a driveway off Knapp Road. Alaska State Troopers and Mat-Su Borough EMS responded to the scene where medics confirmed that Daniel Razo, 59, of Anchorage was deceased.

The state medical examiner was contacted, responded to the scene and took possession of the body, troopers say.