A high-speed chase in Alaska turned deadly when a man opened fire on Alaska State Troopers and other officers, resulting in his own demise. The incident occurred on a 7-mile stretch of highway, leading to its closure. This marks the second fatal shooting involving troopers this week.
The man responsible for the shootout has been identified as Michael Grimes, a 45-year-old resident of Fairbanks. Troopers attempted to stop Grimes’ pickup truck on Wednesday afternoon north of Healy, as part of an ongoing felony-level investigation. However, Grimes refused to comply and initiated a chase, during which he fired shots at the troopers.
Multiple law enforcement agencies, including a trooper-led narcotics team, joined the pursuit. Eventually, spike strips and other techniques were employed to stop Grimes’ vehicle. Another round of gunfire ensued between the suspect and the officers, resulting in Grimes’ death. Thankfully, no law enforcement officers or the female passenger in Grimes’ vehicle sustained any injuries.
The investigation into the incident, including determining who fired the fatal shot, is being conducted by the Alaska Bureau of Investigation. As per standard protocol, the officers involved in the shooting have been placed on administrative leave for 72 hours.
Earlier this week, a trooper in the community of Tok fatally shot a man who was brandishing a rifle outside a motel. The trooper had responded to a 911 call reporting an attempted break-in. The Alaska Bureau of Investigation is also leading the inquiry into this shooting.
The Alaska State Troopers and other law enforcement agencies continue to take necessary action to protect the public and maintain law and order in the state.
