Wasilla theft suspect flees troopers, leaving child behind

ANCHORAGE — A 31-year-old Wasilla man sought for vehicle theft was charged with endangering the welfare of a child after he fled from a pickup that left the roadway in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough.

Alaska State Troopers say the man is also charged with burglary, giving false information and violating parole.

Troopers just after 1 a.m. Tuesday spoke to a driver whose pickup left the road near the Parks Highway in Houston. Troopers say the man gave a fake name and fled on foot, leaving a 4-year-old in the truck.

Using a police dog, troopers found and arrested the man.

Troopers say the man was wanted on a no-bail warrant for multiple counts of vehicle theft. The pickup he was driving had been taken from a house that had been burglarized.

More in News

The Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Encore docks in Juneau in October, 2022. (Clarise Larson / Juneau Empire File)
Ships in Port for the Week of May 28

Here’s what to expect this week.

A child plays in an undated photo. The Alaska Legislature put an additional $7.5 million towards grants for child care providers in this year’s budget. (Getty Images)
Child care providers say funds OK’d by Legislature crucial to staying open

Some advocates say more work to be done as $7.5M is half of what was sought

A troller fishes in Sitka Sound on Feb. 2, 2021. A charter fishing vessel sank in the area Sunday, resulting in one person dead and four missing. The U.S. Coast Guard called off a search for the missing persons Monday night. (James Poulson / Daily Sitka Sentinel)
1 dead, 4 missing after fishing charter boat sinks near Sitka

Coast Guard calls off search Monday night after company reports vessel overdue Sunday.

Chuck Caldwell, who served in the Army during the Vietnam War, lays a wreath on behalf of Veterans of Foreign Wars Taku Post 5559 at the base of the flagpole at Evergreen Cemetery in observance of Memorial Day on Monday. (Mark Sabbatini / Juneau Empire)
Remembering the true meaning of sacrifice

Memorial Day observations in Juneau see hundreds pay tribute to those who serve and persevere

Outgoing Juneau Empire Managing Editor Ben Hohenstatt (left) will be succeeded by reporter Mark Sabbatini (right) after five years to accept a job with the Alaska State Ombudsman. (Clarise Larson / Juneau Empire)
Empire managing editor departs, familiar face takes over role

Ben Hohenstatt departs as managing editor after five years, reporter Mark Sabbatini takes over.

(Michael Penn / Juneau Empire File)
Police calls for Sunday, May 28, 2023

This report contains information from law enforcement and public safety agencies.

(Michael Penn / Juneau Empire File)
Police calls for Saturday, May 27

This report contains information from law enforcement and public safety agencies.

(Michael Penn / Juneau Empire File)
Police calls for Friday, May 26

This report contains information from law enforcement and public safety agencies.

A newly hatched bald eagle chick is attended to by an adult. (Courtesy Photo / Bob Armstrong)
On the Trails: Springtime fun and signs of new life

When spring finally came, it came in a rush. Cottonwood and alder… Continue reading

Most Read