A Haines man died Monday after an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound to the chest.
Police, emergency personnel and an Alaska State Parks ranger staged outside Kevery Strunk’s Second Avenue residence after an acquaintance called 911 to report Strunk was threatening to kill himself. The acquaintance, while standing outside the home, also reported hearing a single gunshot.
Police had their guns drawn as they attempted to communicate with Strunk via phone and loudspeaker.
With no response and after securing the area, police entered the house and found Strunk, 62, on the floor with a gunshot wound to the chest and a handgun nearby. He was transported to the SEARHC Clinic and pronounced dead by the attending physician, according to police.
Strunk’s body was transported to Anchorage for an autopsy. Haines Police Chief Gary Lowe said early investigation shows alcohol may have played a part in Strunk’s death and toxicology tests are being conducted. Police said no one else was in the house at the time of the shooting.
Anyone needing assistance with mental health issues should call the Haines Borough Police Department at 766-2121 or Lynn Canal Counseling at 766-2177. Always call 911 in case of an emergency.
Editor’s Note: The Chilkat Valley News reports on suicides when they occur in a public area, when the situation endangered the public or when a strong police response was necessary. We understand the sensitivity of this story and respect the individuals involved by only naming the deceased.