Alaska Department Of Public Safety,State Troopers Public Information Office

Dispatch Text:

UPDATE: On July 26, 2024, a DPS Deputy Fire Marshal arrived in Aniak to investigate the origin and cause of the fire. A preliminary investigation determined the origin of the fire was in the western portion of the residence near where the human remains were discovered. The cause is still under investigation; however, foul play is not suspected. 

ORIGINAL: On July 25, 2024, around 11:30 am, the Alaska State Troopers were investigating reports that a firearm had been discharged in the community of Aniak. Aniak-based State Troopers and Wildlife Troopers were in the area of the Aniak Slough and observed that a residence across the slough was fully engulfed in fire. With the help of community members, Troopers responded to the residence, and fire suppression efforts were initiated. Troopers searched throughout the area and could not locate the homeowner and suspect that Troopers believe had been discharging the firearm earlier. Later in the afternoon, human remains were located inside of the burned residence during fire suppression efforts. The remains will be sent to the State Medical Examiner’s Office for positive identification and autopsy. The State Fire Marshal’s Office will respond to investigate the origin and cause of the fire. The investigation continues.