On Monday, new information regarding the Anchorage officer involved in the shooting of a young girl last week. The shooting occurred in an apartment in the University Area, leading to the tragic death of sixteen-year-old Easter Leafa. This incident sparked protests and rallies from community members demanding reform. As of this event on May 13, it marks the sixth police-involved shooting in Anchorage.
Leafa’s sister called the police on Tuesday evening, reporting that Easter had a knife. Authorities quickly responded to the call, arriving at Greenbriar Apartments. Upon arrival, officers found Leafa on the back porch, wrapped in a blanket. Despite being ordered to show her hands, Leafa reportedly approached the officers while holding a knife.
When Leafa refused to drop the knife, Officer Alexander Roman, a veteran with more than seven years of experience, fired three shots at her. At the same time, another officer fired a less lethal projectile. Chief Sean Case confirmed that the deadly and non-lethal shots were fired almost simultaneously. Tragically, Leafa did not survive the shooting. She had been looking forward to starting her junior year at Bettye Davis East Anchorage High School.
The government has already completed interviews with those involved, although it is still reviewing the evidence. After the Office of Special Prosecutions completes its review, Mayor Suzanne LaFrance will initiate a separate independent investigation. In his concluding remarks, Chief Case emphasized the importance of the community moving forward together. He thanked residents for their feedback, which will help enhance police services. The Anchorage officer involved in the shooting and the community remain central to ongoing discussions for change.
This news story was originally published by Alaska News Source.
