Saturday, May 25, 2013

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Early Morning Shooting Leaves One Man Dead
Police release few details on fourth murder in Anchorage this year
By Matthew F. Smith


ANCHORAGE - One man is dead and his killer is on the loose after an early morning shooting on the 1000 block of East 20th Avenue.

Anchorage police responded to a call of shots fired just around before 1:30 Monday morning. Police arrived at the Fairview address and found 26-year-old Purdy Alston suffering at least one gunshot wound. Alston was rushed to Alaska Regional Hospital and was listed in critical condition, but he died from his injuries just hours later.

Anchorage Police Department spokesperson Dani Myren said that, at this early stage of the investigation, details are still coming in. “As far as any witness information,” she said, “…it's still early in the case, it's still early in the investigation, so detectives are collecting the information, reviewing the information, and engaging in an investigation, an active investigation at this time.”

Myren would not comment on whether Alston was found inside or outdoors, nor would she comment on the exact nature or number of his wounds. As for suspects, Myren said APD is still looking.

“We don't have anyone in custody at this time,” she said.

Myren said Alston’s death marks the fourth homicide in Anchorage this year.

She urged anyone with information pertaining to the case to call the Anchorage Police at 786-8900, or, to remain anonymous, contact Crimestoppers at 561-STOP (7867).