UPDATE: Trooper search for man who shot VPO in Nunapitchuk

Investigation revealed that the suspect had fled Nunapitchuk on a snowmachine and went to Bethel. Southern SERT responded to Bethel and worked with local Troopers and Bethel PD to locate and take the suspect into custody at approximately 2000 hours. The suspect is identified as Daris Larson, 37 of Nunapitchuk. Charges are forthcoming. AST would like to thank Bethel Police Department for its assistance in apprehending Larson.


Residents are asked to remain at home during the active search.
Alaska State Troopers in Bethel were notified that a Village Police Officer (VPO) in Nunapitchuk, Alaska had been shot by a prisoner who was being secured at the Nunapitchuk Public Safety Building on March 16, 2021 at approximately 1510 hours. After shooting the VPO, the suspect escaped the holding facility and is currently at large. Alaska State Troopers from Bethel responded to Nunapitchuk and are actively searching for the suspect. Residents are asked to remain at home during the active search. The VPO was medivaced to Bethel for treatment, and is reportedly in stable condition. Additional Alaska State Trooper personnel and assets, to include Southern SERT, are en route to Nunapitchuk via state aircraft to assist with the search. Updates to follow.