Alaska prosecutors have announced that no criminal charges will be filed against the two state troopers involved in the fatal shooting of Rexford, a 24-year-old Fairbanks man, on New Year's Day. The decision follows an independent review that concluded the troopers were legally justified in their use of deadly force.

Incident Details and Investigation

Newly released records from the Alaska Department of Public Safety detail the events of January 1st. Troopers were dispatched to a residence on Gradelle Avenue following a report of a domestic disturbance involving Rexford. He had been released from Fairbanks Memorial Hospital's behavioral health unit earlier that morning, having been admitted since Christmas Day.

Upon arrival, troopers found Rexford on a couch. While they and family members attempted to persuade him to return to the hospital for an involuntary mental health commitment, the situation escalated. Rexford suddenly ran into the kitchen, grabbed large knives, and began making stabbing motions toward one of the troopers.

During the confrontation, one trooper sustained a minor knife wound to his hand, as evidenced by body-worn camera footage. Subsequently, two troopers fired their service weapons, striking Rexford, who was pronounced dead at the scene. Rexford's brother, Adam, was also injured, receiving a gunshot wound to the head, and was transferred to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle.

Review and Justification

The Alaska Bureau of Investigation conducted a thorough review of the shooting. The findings were then independently examined by the Office of Special Prosecutions. This office determined that the evidence did not warrant criminal charges against the troopers.

The incident report also included details from initial 911 calls. The first call came from Rexford's brother, reporting medical issues and property destruction, and requesting troopers. A second call from Rexford's father confirmed the situation, noting his son's release from the hospital and suggesting restraint might be necessary.

Troopers were attempting to discuss an involuntary mental health commitment under Title 47 to facilitate Rexford's return to the hospital. During this interaction, Rexford reportedly expressed a desire to die. Investigators estimate that only about eight seconds passed from the moment Rexford grabbed the knives to the final shots being fired.

Trooper Backgrounds

The troopers involved were identified as Trooper John Faul and Trooper Wyatt Miller. Both had approximately five and a half months of service with the Alaska State Troopers (AST) at the time of the incident. Trooper Faul also possessed prior law enforcement experience, having served over three years as a patrol deputy with the Broward County Sheriff’s Office in Florida.

Family's Tribute and Future Actions

Nearly three months after the shooting, a community gathering was held on January 26th in downtown Fairbanks to honor Rexford's life. His sister, Linda Rexford, read a statement from their parents, sharing cherished memories. Rexford was described as someone who enjoyed biking, walking, and fishing, and was proud of purchasing his first new car.

His family portrayed him as a kind, thoughtful, and caring individual with aspirations to become a registered nurse. Rexford, born November 7, 2001, in Fairbanks, attended local schools and completed a certified nursing assistant program through the University of Alaska Community and Technical College.

Administrative Review and Community Support

Following the officer-involved shooting, the Department of Public Safety (DPS) confirmed an administrative process would take place. This review will examine tactics, training, and adherence to policy. AST has stated this administrative review is the next step.

In solidarity with the Rexford family, supporters are organizing a rally scheduled for April 11th to show their support for William and Adam Rexford.