FAIRBANKS (AP) — A Fairbanks Police sergeant who was shot in the line of duty last week died Friday after complications from surgery, the department said.
“Fairbanks lost a hero today,” Deputy Chief Brad Johnson said at a press briefing that was broadcast live on Facebook. “I’m sorry to have to let you know that earlier this afternoon Sgt. Allen Brandt lost the fight.”
Brandt, an 11-year veteran, pulled over to talk to a man walking on a street early on Oct. 16. Authorities say Anthony G. Jenkins-Alexie shot the officer five times, stole his gun and took off for a few blocks in the police cruiser. Jenkins-Alexie was charged with attempted murder and other counts. Online court records show Jenkins-Alexie is represented by the state Public Defender Agency, which declined to say earlier Friday which attorney is representing him. Brandt underwent eye surgery Thursday at an Anchorage hospital. But he suffered complications afterward, which continued to deteriorate throughout the day and he was unable to recover, an emotional Johnson said.
“Our community, this department, our families, our friends are hurting,” Johnson said. “We thank you for all the support you’ve given us so far. And we ask for more for his family, for your department and for yourselves. Let’s help each other heal and work through this together.”
A candlelight vigil to honor Brandt was scheduled for 8:30 p.m. Friday at the Fairbanks Police Department.
