Teen charged with killing 2 people after shooting in small Alaska community of Point Hope

A 16-year-old teen is being charged as an adult in a Sunday night shooting in Alaska that left two adults dead and two others injured.

The shooting took place in Point Hope, a small whaling community located in the North Slope Borough of the state.

According to the court documents obtained by The Associated Press, the teen has been charged with two counts of first-degree murder and attempted murder.  

The Alaskan Police Department responded to a report of shooting at a Point Hope residence around 11:30 p.m. on Sunday, AP reports. Officers found four gunshot victims, three men and one woman. One man and the woman were found dead at the scene.

A witness at the scene told police that she saw the teenager enter the residence before opening fire, prosecutors wrote in the court document.

Approximately 10 minutes after the shooting, prosecutors said that the father of the shooter brought him to the Point Hope Police Station and said he confessed to the crime.

It is unclear if the teen had any relationship with the victims. Investigators are currently investigating a motive. 

Teen's court appearance, bail set at $1 million

On Tuesday, Feb. 27, the teen, Guy Nashookpuk, made a telephone court appearance, the Associated Press reports.

Nashookpuk, who was represented by a public defender, only spoke to Magistrate Judge Colleen Baxter, responding “Yes ma’am” to her questions.

In Alaska, minors 16 and older will be tried as an adult on murder charges. The public defender representing the teen entered not-guilty pleas on his behalf.

Judge Baxter set the teen's bail at $1 million and scheduled a preliminary hearing for March 8.

Public officials react to the shooting, no risk to the public 

The North Slope Borough Mayor Josiah Patkotak released a statement on Monday, Feb. 26 regarding the shooting. 

“Last night, incidents occurred in Point Hope that resulted in the loss of lives and injuries among our residence," Patkotak said in the release shared on Facebook. "First and foremost, our hearts go out to the family and friends of those affected. In these moments we stand together, offering our support and condolences to all impacted by this tragedy.” 

Patkotak said in the news release that the shooting is believed to be an isolated incident and there’s no risk to the public. 

Alaskan Gov. Mike Dunleavy wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter, that he and his wife are praying for the community and victims affected by this tragedy. 

“Rose and I are devastated by the tragic shooting that occurred in Point Hope," Dunleavy said. "Our hearts ache for the families and residents affected by this senseless act. We will continue to pray for healing and justice.” 

Contributing: The Associated Press