Vincent Nageak III, 36

Barrow, Alaska
February 10, 2016

Agencies: North Slope Borough Police Department Alaska

Cause of death: Not Yet Known

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Last updated: almost 6 years ago

Overview

He has been identified as Barrow Fire Chief Vincent Nageak III, 36, and is the son of North Slope Borough Assembly member Roy Nageak and nephew of House Rep. Benjamin Nageak.

The representative and his wife, Bonnie, released a statement about their nephew's death the following afternoon:

"Our hearts and minds are still reeling from the news that's been trickling in about my nephew Vincent and my brother Roy. We still don't know all of the facts. We're trying to get home to be near and find out what happened. Thank you to those who've expressed their support and prayers for our family during this emotional time. We ask for privacy, patience, and continued prayers. We hope to talk soon, but want to do so with a better understanding of just what took place."

The shooting took place just after 3:38 a.m. when North Slope Borough police responded to a 911 call for officer assistance to a domestic disturbance. The caller reported a man wielding a firearm on the 7400 block of North Star St., according to the borough.

The complainant and children also at the home were evacuated, according to the release, and officers were "confronted by Nageak," who reportedly pointed the shotgun at them. One of the officers, identified as Patrol Sergeant James Michels — a nine-year veteran of the force — then shot Nageak, who died at the scene.

Legal Action

On May 28, 2016, it was reported that the Alaska attorney general's office would not file criminal charges against the police officer who fatally shot Nageak.

Community and Family Efforts

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