Man killed after standoff

PALMER — Adrian T. Spindler, 19, was shot and killed early this Monday by Alaska Troopers after he threatened them with a handgun.

Troopers were called at 12:45 a.m. to respond to a residence near Mile 4 of the Palmer-Wasilla Highway for a report of a suicidal male, according to a statement released by the troopers.

Five troopers and three Wasilla police officers responded and tried for about an hour to negotiate by phone and in person with Spindler, according to an AST report.

Troopers report two women who were in the home at the time were evacuated to safety while law enforcement officers continued their negotiations.

Spindler was fatally shot at about 1:45 a.m. when he came outside the residence and threatened troopers with a handgun, according to the report. Two troopers fired at Spindler, who medics later pronounced dead on scene.

Trooper spokeswoman Beth Ipsen said the Alaska Bureau of Investigation is looking into the cause and circumstances surrounding the shooting.

As per department policy, Ipsen said the troopers involved in the shooting are on administrative leave for 72 hours. The names of troopers involved in the shooting will be released on Thursday, she said.