Troopers Cleared in Fairbanks Shooting That Killed Man, Injured Brother

State prosecutors say troopers were justified in using deadly force against armed man in mental health crisis.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 12:07am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a large kitchen knife against a pitch-black background, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash, conceptually representing the weapon used in the police shooting incident.A police shooting that killed a man in mental distress and injured his brother raises concerns about law enforcement's response to crises.Fairbanks Today

The Alaska Office of Special Prosecutions determined that two Alaska State Troopers who shot and killed 24-year-old William Rexford at a Fairbanks home on Jan. 1, 2026, and injured his brother, were justified in their actions. Troopers John Faul and Wyatt Miller were responding to a call about Rexford destroying property when he grabbed two knives and tried to stab Faul, leading the troopers to open fire.

Why it matters

The shooting has raised concerns about law enforcement's handling of mental health crises, as well as calls for greater transparency and accountability around police use of force incidents. Rexford's family has disputed the troopers' account of the events.

The details

According to prosecutors, the troopers were called to the home after receiving reports that Rexford was destroying property. Body camera footage shows Rexford speaking calmly with troopers before suddenly grabbing two large knives and moving to stab Trooper Faul, who fell backwards. Rexford's brother then tried to pull him away, but the troopers opened fire, shooting Rexford four times and accidentally injuring the brother in the face.

  • The incident occurred on January 1, 2026.
  • Troopers had been called to the home previously to address issues related to Rexford's mental health.
  • Rexford had just been discharged from the psychiatric unit of Fairbanks Memorial Hospital prior to the shooting.

The players

William Rexford

A 24-year-old man who was killed by troopers during the incident. His family has described him as a caregiver who was funny and kind.

Trooper John Faul

One of the two troopers involved in the shooting, who was knocked to the ground by Rexford and suffered a minor hand wound.

Trooper Wyatt Miller

The other trooper involved in the shooting, who followed Faul into the kitchen where the confrontation occurred.

Rexford's Brother

The brother of William Rexford, who was shot in the face by the troopers and has needed extensive medical treatment for his 'life-altering' injuries.

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What they’re saying

“Although the injury to (the brother) is undeniably tragic, the troopers' use of force against Mr. Rexford does not rise to the level of recklessness nor criminal negligence. Their actions were driven by the immediate need to protect Trooper Faul from what appeared to be an imminent knife attack.”

— Jenna Gruenstein, Chief Assistant Attorney General

“We pray that no other family has to go through this experience.”

— Rexford's Mother

What’s next

The Rexford family has called for greater transparency and accountability surrounding the shooting, and has held a rally in Fairbanks to demand more information about the incident.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in responding to mental health crises, as well as the need for improved training and protocols to de-escalate such situations without the use of deadly force.