Reports of disturbance lead to officer-involved shooting

On February 28, at 1:13 am, the Alaska State Troopers (AST) received a 911 call about a fight in progress between two males at a residence in Wasilla. According to dispatch reports, AST responded to the residence, where troopers were able to locate one of the males involved in the fight, while the complainant outside of the residence.

The Trooper was able to detain the male in their patrol vehicle, and during the course of speaking with him, the second male exited a residence armed with a knife. Upon giving repeated commands to drop the knife, the male failed to comply, continuing to approach the Trooper while brandishing the knife.

AST reports that the Trooper shot the adult male due to his actions. The male was injured by the gunshot and transported to a Mat-Su area hospital for treatment of serious injuries. No other persons were injured, and no criminal charges have been filed at this time against anyone involved in the incident, though charges are expected to be filed as the investigation continues.

The Alaska Bureau of Investigation has assumed case responsibility and will conduct a thorough investigation into the incident. Once their investigation is complete, it will be independently reviewed by the Alaska Office of Special Prosecutions.

The Trooper who discharged their firearm has been placed on 72 hours of administrative leave in accordance with Department of Public Safety policy. The Trooper’s name will be released 72 hours following the incident.

This is a developing story.