ANCHORAGE, Alaska (AP) - A man who shot and killed a state trooper K9 after leading authorities on a vehicle chase in south-central Alaska has been fatally shot by troopers.
Alaska State Troopers say in a news release the suspect, identified as 36-year-old Justin Smith of Wasilla, was taken to a hospital and died from his injuries Sunday.
Troopers had attempted to stop a vehicle driven by Smith for a moving violation near Wasilla when he failed to yield and sped off.
Troopers deployed spike strips along Parks Highway, stopping Smith’s car after a 45-minute pursuit.
Authorities say Smith tried to flee and troopers sent a K9 after him.
He then turned and shot the dog, killing it.
Troopers returned fire and struck Smith, who later died at a hospital.
An investigation remains ongoing.
Please read our comment policy before commenting.