Trooper shoots, kills driver during physical altercation in Sterling

Authorities say an Alaska State Trooper shot and killed a driver during an altercation in Sterling on Saturday night.

According to a trooper dispatch, the trooper attempted to pull over a driver at about 11:20 p.m. near Mile 82 of the Sterling Highway, near the Izaak Walton State Recreation Site. The report states that the driver
pulled over after a short pursuit and engaged the officer in a physical altercation.

The trooper drew his weapon and fired, killing the male driver. It is not yet known where the altercation took place, how many shots were fired or if there was anyone else in the vehicle.

The driver was pronounced dead at the scene.

The trooper was taken by ambulance to Central Peninsula Hospital for treatment of minor injuries.

The identity of the driver won’t be released until his next of kin are notified.

Following Department of Public Safety policy, the trooper won’t be identified for 72 hours. The Alaska Bureau of Investigation is looking into the case.

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